James Hyland is the actor, adapter, director and producer of this spin-off from that much-loved hit called Treasure Island. In this one-hander called Silver & Gold, Hyland takes on the tricky task of reclaiming, or at least re-framing, Long John Silver's appalling reputation. Silver, we are told, was indeed a very bad man. But he looked after his crew (apparently), he distributed his wealth (allegedly), and he sheltered his many wives from the distressing knowledge that they were not unique (what a gent). One really has to sympathise, doesn't one?

Hyland really is a class act. He fills the stage and holds the audience with the simplest and oldest of tricks: he tells a compelling story.

With a delightfully sparkly pirate costume and a confident swagger, Silver (Hyland) berates his crew (the audience) and walks us through the numerous punishments meted out to any single sailor who disobeys his rules. These are easy to remember and rapidly boil down to 'do as I say, or die'.

There's never a man who's looked me between the eyes and seen a good day a'terwards.

James Hyland's productions are in many ways old-fashioned: a simple yarn, very little (if any) set, and a powerful and engaging narrative. In this performance, Hyland adds a twist in the tail where, as Silver lies mortally wounded, the audience can ask any question they like about his long and murderous career, and Silver answers in character. That's a really fun ending to an enjoyable evening at the theatre.

For more information about James Hyland and his theatre company visit brotherwolf.co.uk

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