Judgment at Nuremberg

“The poor man’s Richard Widmark” – Sir Ivan Lawrence Q.C.

In July 2011, a “company of legal professionals” (judges and lawyers playing judges and lawyers) raised over £20,000 for the Tricycle Theatre’s Education, Social Inclusion and Artistic Programme with five performances of Judgment at Nuremberg.

The play is Abby Mann’s 2001 stage adaptation of the 1961 Academy Award winning movie of the same name, a fictionalised account of the Judges’ (or Justice) Trial: United States of America v. Josef Altstoetter et al. (Case III) February 17, 1947 – December 4, 1947.

It was a privilege to have the opportunity to work at the Tricycle with a fully professional production team. Our experience gave the lie to the adage that all barristers are actors. In a relatively short rehearsal period, we had to attempt to learn something of the real craft of acting and the discipline of performance.

We now have a second chance to try to make the show even better. Sally Knyvette (“Blake’s 7”) is directing an “Off-Fleet Street” revival at the Bridewell Theatre in March 2013. This time, the proceeds will go to Paul’s Cancer Support Centre. We will be rehearsing hard from January to produce something which we hope will be worthy of the support of our colleagues, clients and friends.

As Sally notes, “for once it is the judges who are on trial”.

Tickets cost £55 for the evening performances (including post-performance wine and light refereshments) and £30 for the Saturday matinee. Please mention my name when booking (the online facility has a box which enables you to do this).

Judgment at Nuremberg, Bridewell Theatre, Wednesday 20 to Saturday 22 March 2013, 19:15, Saturday 22 March 2013, 14:15