A Monster Callls

When Karen Waddicor, Chair of LCT told me that they had chosen 'A Monster Calls' as their next production, I couldn't bear to show my ignorance and admit I had never heard of it - so I did what most respected reviewers do and that was 'homework' -  it began life as a book by Patrick Ness, based on an original idea by Siobahn Dowd and devised by Sally Cookson. I then understood why LCT had chosen this play as their next production. Never afraid to tackle difficult storylines, they have shown how this highly esteemed group are at the top of their game.

This play, sensitively and cleverly directed by Janine Walker, basically tackles the pain and suffering felt by young Conor as his mother battles with a terminal illness - how it affects his life both at home and at school and how a 'Monster' helps him face these issues by showing him that humans are complex creatures - Conor has to face his nightmares, leading him to carry on with his life after such a massive loss.

I cannot begin to tell you how this play has affected me personally and I would like to give huge congratulations to Janine and everyone at LCT for bringing such a marvellous piece of theatre to the Carriageworks this year.

The highest accolades must go firstly to Maisy Greenall as Conor - this fine actor demonstrated a mature and deep emotional approach to the role with gender blindness - she was barely off stage for the entire performance and I give her huge praise. As the 'Monster', Simon Reece gave his role a depth of feeling - scary but at the same time, understanding as he helped Conor with his problems. May I also congratulate his costume design (not credited) and excellent make-up (LCT Team).

This company always combine their young cast with experienced and confident adults - apart from the Monster, Jemma Leckenby played Conor's Mum with pathos and heart-rending accuracy - so moving. Conor's Grandma was played by Pam Wilson with just the right amount of emotion especially in the scenes with Conor - spot-on performance. Glen Routledge doubled as Conor's Dad and his teacher, Mr Marl, extremely well drawn characterisations - tense scenes between him and Conor were gut-wrenching and emotional. I would like to give a special mention to Kellan Pasco as Conor's chief bully, Harry - a fine actor who will go far - Harry's henchmen, Sully (Matilda Spencer) and Anton (Grace Fishwick) were equally well cast - just be careful not to let your voice drop in dialogue. Naomi Kelly as Conor's friend Lily, gave a sensitive performance whilst trying to help Conor with his emotions. Their teacher, Miss Godfrey, (played very well by Lauren Viligiardi) made me realise how difficult it must be for teachers today, dealing with all these complex problems and yet still try to disipline those in charge. The Monster tells stories to Conor to try to guide him though his problems - these were enacted by very talented actors - Jasper Midgley (King), Lydia Bailey (Prince), Lea Hopkins-Nnando (Queen), Ophelia Routledge (Farmer's Daughter), Ollie Grinham (Apothecary), Elsa Astrid Birtill (Parson's Daughter), Lucy Smith (Parsons Daughter) and Rosie Walding (Nurse/Parson).

I was particularly impressed with the set design for this play (Dan Dainter and Janine Walker) - simple but effective. Jo Brady, as Stage Manager, had excellent help back stage, as always with this group - ASM, Mark Smith, LightingDesign, Peter Waddicor, Sound/AV Designer, Chris Beardwell, Scenic Artist/AV Operator, Gary Loughrey and Props, Freya Almond-Palmer and Lily Rugg. I understand that the set construction was by LCT Members and the Yew Tree was made by Students at Roundhay School. Other important people to mention are Marketing, Front of House and Chaperones. These are the unseen but brilliant folk who make it all so easy for actors on stage - they deserve medals!!

I must give another huge 'pat on the back' to Janine - her attention to detail, movement of the ensemble and untold patience with a well-rehearsed cast has paid dividends - she should be very proud of her hard work.

I congratulate you all on a five-star production that will remain with me for a long time to come.

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