A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Having read the foreword in the programme, I was intrigued to see the direction this production took, it was interesting and very definitely an innovative way of doing things for Redbourn Players, which worked extremely well.

Director Trevor Oakes used a “studio style production”, where all the actors were onstage the whole time, they also brought props on and off as required, which kept the production slick and pacy, my attention was engaged the entire show.

Lighting was mostly good and very suitable for the sometimes dark and eery action, I liked the swirling light which signified Scrooge passing through time with his various ghosts.

Costumes were good, very suitable for the era and the wearers, whilst sound was excellent throughout, with good projection and animation from the entire cast, something the Director is adept at getting from his actors, along with their enthusiasm at being asked to do something new for them.

The introduction of music with guitar and percussion accompaniment, meant we had some very tuneful renditions of familiar carols, which filled in while changes were made on stage, and engaged the audience.

There was quite a lot of humour contained within the production, not necessarily evident within the script, but it lightened the sometimes dark and disturbing atmosphere.

The production was led by David Howell (Ebenezer Scrooge), probably the best thing I have seen David do, he was sharp, nasty and coherent, a strong and excellent portrayal.

Clive Crowther (Bob Cratchit) gave us a slightly downtrodden air, but he held his own against Scrooge’s determination, both acting-wise, and within the confines of the script.Pauline Wills (Mrs Cratchit), an understanding character, with Sam Couch (Tiny Tim), Rosie Willis (Katie), Jessica Willis (Abigail), Hollie Orchard (Ursula) and Darcy Gibbs (Martha), making up a jolly Cratchit family, despite their distressed situation!Hollie also played guitar very nicely, with Pauline playing percussion.

Rob Kirk (Jacob Marley) was very forceful and as the schoolteacher (Mr Grimes), was absolutely horrible, very well achieved.

Andrea Clare (Christmas Past) was very down to earth, but ethereal, calm and quiet but making an impression nonetheless.

Hilary Violentano (Christmas Present), brought her own very upfront and lively personality to the part, a good contrast to the other ghosts, and very amusing.

Becky Vernon-Clinch (Christmas Yet not Come), showed her understanding of the character, a good portrayal.

Both Andrea and Becky sang solos and proved to have charming voices.The rest of the cast joined in the carols and music, sometimes providing background music, which was never intrusive, always tuneful, with some lovely harmonies – very well done everyone.

Mark Coltman (Frederick), showed us his belief in family, despite having Scrooge as an uncle, with Benita Gilliam (Constance) as Frederick’s wife, warm and empathetic, whilst also taking playing Young Scrooge, which Benita accomplished well.

Other parts were played by Sally Patterson (Mrs Lack and Maid), who also played guitar, Danielle Medaney and (Mrs Grimes and Mother), Mario Violantano (Mr Fezziwig), with Hilary Violantano as his wife, with some actors covering other parts as well!  All very well accomplished.

I was very impressed with the production as a whole, and the increased performance values from the cast. Well done Redbourn Players.

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