A story of the creation of Johnson's most famed work, A Dictionary of the English Language, from its being commissioned in 1746 through to initial publication in 1755. Using a mixture of imagined and historical characters, original dialogue spiced with many quotations attributed to the lexicographer, and songs and music, the drama provides some insights into the methodology used by Johnson and his team in compiling their opus. But also shows a more personal side to the writer in the relationship with his wife, who would not live long enough to see the dictionary published.
This is delivered with a distinctly Scottish twist to the action, with plenty of illustrations of the richness of Scots language which was largely ignored in the compilation, and Johnson's lack of respect for Scots themselves. A timely echo of the devaluation of Scottish MPs by the recent EVEL legislation.
For all the serious intent, this play is lush in its presentation and often very, very funny. Mark McDonnell is an admirable Samuel J, erudite, impassioned, ofttimes arrogant, and clearly in love with his wife (albeit without exhibiting any of the behavioural tics for which the great man was known - did the writer think they would be too great a distraction for the audience?). Yet his performance was outshone by two of the supporting cast.
Gerda Stevenson plays both Scotsman and Englishman, with her main role a memorable Tetty Johnson, and the husband and wife scenes are amongst the best in the production. While Alasdair MacRae stands out for his great comic timing, commanding delivery and physical presence. And both Stevenson and MacRae have excellent singing voices.
Hugely enjoyable, historically informative and with relevance to today, A Word With Dr Johnson is well worth an hour of your time. Mind you, I have to confess to being converted before a word had been spoken. Any production that includes the wonderful sound of the oh-so-rarely-heard hammer dulcimer is a winner in my book....
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