Play Portrays Dark Chapter in Cranston History

The last time the death penalty was applied in Rhode Island was 1845. The fact that it was so long ago is interesting, but the circumstances leading up to the event are truly fascinating.

This is the subject of “The Murder Trial of John Gordon,” a play taking place at the through Feb. 27.

The historic murder happened in Cranston on Dec. 31, 1843. The story, written by Ken Dooley, who grew up a block from the theatre, occurs under a cloud of anti-Irish sentiment and dubious legal proceedings.  

Dooley first became intrigued by the murder trial of John Gordon when his grandmother used to sing about the Irish immigrant and the crime he was convicted of, but seemingly didn’t commit.

While researching and writing the story for the past three years, Dooley discovered that the case against Gordon was based entirely on circumstantial evidence. All of the courtroom dialogue and characters in the play are historically accurate, as the story is based on state records.

While the details surrounding the murder of wealthy mill owner Amasa Sprague and the subsequent trial would be enough to capture the audience’s attention, they are played out in the context of the prejudice that existed at the time and the power affluent businessmen wielded.  

The Irish accents spoken by the actors were wonderfully executed. The costumes and sets added to the authenticity of the time period.

The musical performance of “When Newport Was Irish,” by Tim May and Tom Maguire in the second scene set the tone for the scenes to follow. The only non-historically based character, Ryan Murphy, served as a narrator. Portrayed by actor Michael Healy, the character provided some of the play’s most entertaining lines, using humor and sarcasm.

One of the lines spoken by Healy captured the false expectations and hardships experienced by the immigrants. “We realized that the streets weren’t paved with gold,” stated the actor. “In fact, they weren’t paved at all. The Irish would be doing the paving.”   

The frustration and conviction of defense attorney John P. Knowles, was matched by the passion that actor Jeff Gill poured into the character. Even though the audience is aware of the outcome of the trial before it begins, you can’t help but root for the lawyer who has the cards stacked against him.

Late in the play, Dooley offers his theory of who actually committed the crime for which Gordon was falsely accused. The theory is certainly plausible, but also based on a lack of hard evidence.

Directed by Pamela Lambert, “The Murder Trial of John Gordon” is entertaining and thought-provoking. Any Rhode Islander who is unaware of this chapter in our state’s history should take the time to see this play.

Performances are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m., until Feb. 27. For ticket information, contact the box office at 467-7275 or check out www.parktheatreri.com.