Writer: Denise Mina
Adaptor: Linda McLean
Director: Dominic Hill
Directed by Dominic Hill, The Long Drop marks the final opening night of the Citizens Theatre’s highly anticipated reopening season. Linda McLean’s adaptation of Denise Mina’s novel drops us into 1957 Glasgow and wastes no time drawing us in. It’s a darkly funny play that keeps the audience completely gripped.
The play follows a tense, whisky-fuelled night shared by William Watt and Peter Manuel. Thick with cigarette smoke and half-truths, their uneasy back-and-forth moves through the streets like a game neither man can afford to lose. The tension is palpable, but the script also lands the laughs with real confidence.
The production elements elevate this thriller into something genuinely spectacular. The live sound design is a triumph. It creates an intense, heavy atmosphere that you can physically feel vibrating in your body. Alongside this, the lighting design is breath-taking. Beams of light seem to descend directly from the heavens, casting gorgeous, moody shadows across the stage.
Jen McGinley’s set design moves around the city with incredible ease. In one unnoticeable lighting change, the action shifts seamlessly from a dingy pub to a courtroom. The pillars of the court are imposing and grand. Then, they vanish entirely into the shadows for the next scene. It is a visually stunning descent into a dark and dangerous city.
The entire seven-strong cast is utterly sensational. Their collective ability to tell a gripping story is remarkable. Keith Fleming gives a powerful, completely convincing performance as William Watt. Opposite him, Brian Vernel is fiercely engaging as the notorious Peter Manuel. Mary Gapinski stands out for her incredible versatility, effortlessly sliding between the roles of Nettie Watt and Bridget Manuel.
The remaining ensemble members—Andy Clark, Martin Donaghy, George Drennan, and Robert Jack—are equally superb. Most of the cast multi-role extensively, shifting characters with flawless precision to populate the fast-moving narrative.
Each performer navigates the Glaswegian dialogue beautifully, capturing these historical minds with absolute conviction. Hill’s direction ensures the pacing never falters. It is a gripping masterpiece that proves the Citz is officially back doing what it does best.
Runs until 20 June 2026 | Image: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan
