Silver & Gold
OVERVIEW
LONG JOHN SILVER is a legend in his own lifetime. Treacherous. Murderous. Infamous. PIRATICAL.
The only problem is, he's not happy with the legend and he'll do anything to set the record straight, even at the cost of his very last breath.
Adapted and performed by award-winning actor James Hyland, SILVER & GOLD is a powerful exploration of the ambiguity of morality that will captivate audiences, young and old. Climb on board and join Captain Silver for this acclaimed and historically accurate theatrical event.
NOMINATED: SOLO PERFORMANCE IN A PLAY
The Fringe Theatre Awards, 2025/2026
Age Recommendation: 12+
CREATIVE TEAM
Actor/Adapter/Producer/Director
JAMES HYLAND
Music and Sound
CHRIS WARNER
Costume Designers/Makers
MELROSE McFARLANE
MAMBLE FASHION
PRESS QUOTES
"James Hyland's spellbinding SILVER & GOLD is a masterclass in storytelling, transporting its audience to the high seas and the darkest depths of human nature. It's a truly unforgettable performance... The characterisation was utterly incredible. The way Hyland embodied Silver was nothing short of breathtaking... It's a complete tour de force performance that left me completely captivated... Theatre doesn't get more immersive or atmospheric than this... This is theatre as it should be. Raw, engaging, and unapologetic."
Rating: ★★★★★
~Neill Kovacic-Clarke, PINK PRINCE THEATRE
"Hyland delivers a high-octane performance, inhabiting the character of Long John Silver expertly and with striking nuance... The directness and richness of Silver's characterisation vividly brings him to life in this brilliantly constructed narrative... Hyland has created another compelling and immersive story that plunges the audience into a gripping piratical adventure... A truly outstanding show that lets a maligned character stand tall and unrepentant."
Rating: ★★★★★
~Bianca, A SHINY LIFE FOR ME!
"As Long John Silver approaches the end of his days, Silver & Gold is an opportunity for him to try and put the record straight and tell his side of the story, before he takes his final breath. The performance is centred around the audience and we are the latest recruits to join his ship. Hyland has a powerful stage presence and there’s an air of intimidation when in character and he addresses everyone... A huge credit to Hyland for giving a strong convincing performance throughout."
Rating: ★★★★★
~Elaine Chapman, THEATRE AND ARTS REVIEWS
"Silver & Gold is a definite must see show. Hyland's brash and comedic character brings a fascinating story to life for all to enjoy. A masterpiece in its entirety."
Rating: ★★★★★
~John S. Perryman, BRITISH THEATRE JOURNAL
"Silver, played with formidable energy by James Hyland, commands the space... Hyland's ability to hold the audience's attention throughout is impressive. The pacing is taut, the storytelling vivid... for those with a love of theatre, history, and storytelling, it's a rare treat... a theatrical voyage worth taking."
~Penny Curran, NUMBER 9
"Pure Gold... What I really enjoy about watching this actor is his intensity – the audience is on the edge of their seats, never quite sure what might happen next... Hyland brought such emotion and humour to the performance... We were thoroughly entertained!"
~Virginia Betts, PUBLISHED AUTHOR & ENGLISH TUTOR