A Man For All Seasons

Frodsham Players took to the stage with their production of ‘A Man For All Seasons’, which was directed by David Varley. David had a clear vision for this production, which was realised successfully. The staging was a good aspect of this production. There were two levels used, with staging blocks used to create the lower acting space with steps leading up to the main stage. On the main stage was a huge background, which opened up to an interior befitting of a palace. The cell for Sir Thomas More was wheeled on when needed, and looked impressive. Setting the play in modern dress worked extremely well and made a strong impact, suggesting that the themes in the play could still happen in today’s world. There were moments of humour in this production, which worked well. The World’s Best Dad mug and novelty slippers were used well and didn’t detract from the production. It is a long, wordy play, but the pace of this production was good, with scenes flowing nicely into each other. Scene changes were handled well by the crew, with some being done by Emily in her role as The Common Man. Costumes were all modern dress, and were appropriate for each character and their social standing.

The technical elements of the production were secure throughout. The lighting design helped to create different locations, from the candlelit meeting between Sir Thomas More and Cardinal Thomas Wolsey to the blues for the river. The sound was cued well and set at an appropriate level.

Emily Duffy was well cast as The Common Man. She was the link between the audience and the story. Emily was at ease addressing the audience and becoming a character in the following scene. Emily adopted different characteristics for the minor characters she played, from a barman to the jailor. This was a good performance.

Iain Bennett gave a strong performance as Sir Thomas More. Iain displayed a range of emotions throughout, and it was clear through Iain’s performance that More had the weight of the world on his shoulders. The breakdown as he was sentenced and brought to his execution was believable. This made the character more human.

Nick Bradshaw Hughes did well as Richard Rich. Nick appeared slightly nervous during his opening scene, but soon settled into his performance, giving a smarmy character as he worked his way up the social ladder.

Murray Milligan played Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk. Murray brought a gravitas to the role, using his voice well. Murray brought moments of humour, especially in his interactions with Martina.

Martina Keith-Stewart impressed as Lady Alice More. She created a believable relationship with Iain, and their moments together were heartfelt and sincere. Martina was able to portray the anguish that her character was feeling. This was a pleasing supporting performance.

Michelle Parrington gave a wide-eyed innocence to Lady Margaret More. Michelle showed good control in her interactions with other characters, creating believable relationships.

David Leslie brought great reverence to the production as Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. He looked every inch the part, and his scene with Iain was pitched perfectly. This was a strong performance from David.

As well as directing, David Varley played Thomas Cromwell. This was a very good performance from David, and he worked well with Iain in their scenes. He was able to show Cromwell’s manipulative nature through his interactions throughout the production. David’s performance showed his passion for this production.

Carole Shinkfield took on the role of Ambassador Eustacia Chapuys. This was a good supporting role from Carole, as an ally of Sir Thomas More. Carole was able to show the character’s wariness towards Cromwell, through her interactions.

George Jenkinson played William Roper. George did well trying to win favour of Thomas More, and created a good relationship with Michelle. Remember that moments of stillness are powerful.

Andrew Wilson put in a convincing performance as King Henry VIII. He was confident and prowled around the stage with ease. Andrew used his voice and physicality to intimidate Sir Thomas More. This was a very good cameo performance.

Martin Stockdale did well as Archbishop Thomas Cranmer. He was confident in what he was doing, and helped move the story along.

Overall, this was a great production. The choice to set it in modern dress was inspired, there were some strong performances, and the staging was good.

Thank you to Frodsham Players for their kind invite and hospitality. All the best for your next production.

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