Hilary Mantel's imaginative tale of Margaret Thatcher's assassination, set in the heart of Liverpool, is set to captivate audiences next year. The story, titled 'The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher - August 6th 1983', was first published in the Guardian in 2014 and sparked intense debate. In this gripping psychological thriller, a woman in a 'genteel corner' of Windsor finds herself face-to-face with a gunman who intends to use her flat's vantage point to shoot the then-prime minister, who is undergoing an eye operation at a nearby private hospital.
The play, adapted by Alexandra Wood and directed by John Young at the Everyman theatre in May, delves into the complex themes of class, lives colliding, and the power of voices that feel unheard. Young emphasizes that the play is not just for those with strong opinions about Thatcher, but for anyone interested in the societal divide and the dangers of feeling powerless. Mantel's own encounter with Thatcher in the hospital grounds inspired the story, and she found herself contemplating the distance between them and the potential consequences.
Despite the story's controversial reception, including calls for Mantel to be investigated by the police, the author stands by her work. She believes that examining the dark aspects of history is crucial, as the repercussions of Thatcher's reign continue to impact the nation. The play promises to explore the relationship between Thatcher and Liverpool, with the sniper's accent described as 'Liverpudlian', and the story set against the backdrop of the city's industrial decline and the Toxteth riots.
Young highlights the Everyman theatre's ability to create an intimate yet massive atmosphere, reflecting the play's exploration of small spaces and grand ideas. The casting for the play, which runs from May 2nd to 23rd, has yet to be announced, but it is expected to be a compelling production that will spark discussion and debate, much like Mantel's original story.
