Step Behind The Stage
The Gang of Three
The Arts Theatre, Cambridge - 03/11/2026
Review by Alex King
Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan
The 1970s were a tumultuous time for Britain and its politics, with swinging highs and lows against the backdrop of still trying to bounce back from the effects of a world war. With Heath, Wilson and Callaghan at the helm, political parties were all fighting for power against one another but also within themselves. But underneath the noise was the beginning of a new party hoping to bring about a revolutionary change in the direction of the country. However, before the famous Gang of Four would go on to found the Social Democratic Party, a different gang would start to build the foundations of the plan. Friendships that started 30 years earlier would form the foundations upon which the four would build. Robert Khan and Tom Salinsky’s play The Gang of Three explores these three friends in their new play that is touring the UK after its debut in London last year, with the drama currently stopping in Cambridge until Saturday.
The Gang of Three portrays the friendship and rivalry between three of the more recognisable politicians of the 1970s; Tony Crosland, Denis Healey and Roy Jenkins. Over a period of eight years, Khan and Salinsky’s drama takes a look at the debates, and proposals between the three that would eventually lead to the formation of the SDP in the 1980s. Each of the men are staunchly grounded in their own beliefs and each of the scenes portrays the various games they play with each other in an effort to get what they want.
From the start it is clear that everyone involved in bringing these people to life have done their research. Robert Khan and Tom Salinsky’s history of political observation serves them excellently here in providing the balance between historical accuracy and artistic dramatisation. Sharp commentary of the climate of the 70s sits comfortably alongside humour that is as dry as the drinks that the characters nurse throughout the scenes. What stands out most is the stylistic decision for each of the characters to break the fourth wall and deliver individual monologues. It’s in these segments where we see what many feel is a rare occurrence from politicians, honesty. We get a much more human look at these characters, what they want to achieve and how they intend to get it. Doubts and concerns are laid bare, a sight never seen in public, as we catch glimpses of how these figures put the pieces together to either come to a coordinated goal or come out on top. This sleek addition to the narrative separates The Gang of Three from being a much flatter, more linear political play.
Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan
Likewise, each of the actors’ portrayals is done with earnestness instead of satire, something that often goes hand in hand with depicting politicians, making it easy to see these characters as people operating at the time instead of caricatures. As Jenkins, Hywel Morgan is an undoubtable presence throughout as his proud mannerisms give way to a more human side in later scenes. Colin Tierney’s Denis Healey complements his cast nicely as a more calculated character that consistently has this looming feeling of being in control and letting others think otherwise, until the closing scenes, where his façade drops and Tierney shows his capabilities as a performer. Rounding out the trio is Alan Cox as Tony Crosland. Perhaps the least well known of the three, Cox portrays Crosland as an instigator with the sly charm and wit that makes it clear to see how this man made his way through politics before his premature death. All three of the actors bounce off each other so seamlessly that the 30-year friendship of the characters they portray shines through during the numerous debates and rare heart to hearts.
While it may have been easier to rely on the script to tell the story, Director Kirsty Patrick Ward and Lighting Designer Jamie Platt instead use their talent to ensure the piece is as engaging as possible, particularly to craft the transitions between years, utilising movement from Naomi Said as well as the playing of headlines and key speeches from the period. Every member of the crew makes full use of the theatre to craft memorable imagery through the play and help create a production that is as interesting to watch as it is to listen to.
The Gang of Three is a fascinating watch, regardless of whether you are old enough to recall the events happening or not. It is a grim but real fact that a large part of politics is not so different to a betting man’s game rife with bluffing, holding cards close to your chest and making the deals that work best for you. However, it does make for compelling drama and so seeing the games that played out, paving the way for a change in politics, makes for a curious evening. But it’s at the times when the mask slips that the play truly shines. Witty back and forths break down and turn into honest arguments, true colours are revealed and relationships are tested as three university friends all try to come out on top, ultimately leading to a ‘Gang of Four’ being the ones to make the move. Whether you have an interest in politics or not, The Gang of Three serves as much of a character drama as it does an eerily prophetic tale of modern-day politics.
Cast on the Night:
Alan Cox - Tony Crosland
Hywel Morgan - Roy Jenkins
Colin Tierney - Denis Healey