THEY are known as one of the world’s leading theatrical groups.
But things got a little too real during a production by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) at Poole’s Lighthouse this week.
During a bar-room brawl scene on the opening night of Days of Significance, actor George Rainsford landed a crunching hook on another cast member, Luke Norris.
The accidental blow left George, who plays the lead role of Jamie, with a badly injured hand and confined him to the wings for the rest of the week.
It is thought the punch caught the tooth of Luke, who was also left with a bloody lip but managed to recover in time for the next night’s performance.
Jeremy Adams, RSC producer, said: “The production is fast-moving and very physical.
“It contains a number of stage fights, during one of which George injured his hand.
“He received first aid and completed the performance, and was treated at Salisbury District Hospital.”
The show has gone on this week, however, with understudy Scott Hazell stepping into George’s shoes. It is expected George will resume the role of Jamie when the show rolls on to Cardiff next week.
“Although George was obviously disappointed to be temporarily out of the show, he was pleased to hear the audience reaction to the play and Scott’s performance has been so positive,” added Mr Adams.
Days of Significance – described by George as “ferocious and violent” in an interview – is a story of two young soldiers returning from a tour in Iraq.
The last performances of Days of Significance, written by award-winning playwright Roy Williams, take place at the Lighthouse today, with shows at 2.30pm and 7pm.
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