Focus on a family at war

Blessed by David Spencer’s lean script which ensures that anger bounces off
the walls of this tiny venue with full force, this impressive piece links family
break-up to social unrest, and provides meaty roles for an excellent cast.
Centering on the uneasy introspection of Danny (Sean Bean), who makes a trip
back to Yorkshire to grapple with his family background, “Killing the Cat” also
draws in a vivid portrait of a weak, blustering father (Henry Stamper) and
flashes back to a happy childhood which lasted until love was broken into tiny
pieces.
Sean Bean holds the centre well as Angry Young Danny, veering convincingly
from volcanic rage and biting cynicism, to weepy sensitivity and all-out
kindness. Henry Stamper provides a visceral treat as a father trapped by his
own insecurity.
Kate McLoughlin and Sally Rogers offer confident support as Danny’s two
sisters, while Valerie Lilley, as the mother, fixes your gaze with her descent
toward mental illness.
This harrowing scenario of alienation and lost love is thankfully punctured
by bouts of earthy humour. The acting is so electric the cast almost sits in
your lap.