Teesway One Nine Nine - Richard Jemison, Chris Firth and Nigel Whitfield
Price:£20.00
The Woman In Black - Darlington Civic Theatre
Mar 26, 2010
THE Woman in Black adapted for the stage by Stephen Mallatratt from the Susan Hill novel is one of those productions which never fails to impress me. The story tells of a lawyer, Arthur Kipps played by Robert Demeger, who is obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of a ‘Woman in Black'. Desperate to tell his story as a warning to others he engages a young actor, played by Peter Bramhill, to help him. Arthur Kipps begins his story in a monotone uninspiring way, but with the help of the actor is soon expertly creating the characters needed to tell his story. Both Peter Bramhill and Robert Demeger are faultless throughout and hold the audience's attention with ease.
The tense atmosphere is cleverly created as the audience are invited to imagine Eel Marsh House and the boggy marshes surrounding it, through the clever use of minimal props, sound and lighting effects. It is amazing how versatile a props basket can be!
It has to said Robin Herford, director of this production for 20 years in the West End and on tour nationally and internationally, has created the ultimate lesson in creating atmosphere, you can always be guaranteed their will be screams of terror from the audience. This is one show which will run and run.
A J Harrison