Bracken Moor

BRACKEN MOOR by Alexi Kaye Campbell is a relatively new and largely unknown (on the am dram circuit) play.  Its set in the rather shabby home of colliery owner, Pritchard, and his grief-stricken wife, Elizabeth, in 1937, ten years after the death of their son, Edgar. They live on the Yorkshire hills overlooking the mining village.    It starts as a family drama but becomes a supernatural thriller and is peppered with social comment.  

The set (the staircase, drawing room area of the mansion) was cleverly designed to make use of the relatively small stage.   It was decorated in a dour, gloomy manner reflecting the neglect since the death of the son.   The spectral portrait at the climax of the play was brilliantly executed. 

The costumes were excellent, with great attention to detail and were in keeping with the characters and story including very convincing muddy outdoor outfits. 

The lighting was superb as was the sound, and the effects – blackouts, storm, flashing light, were well controlled and very effective.

Director, Pete Watt drew great performances from the entire cast who created and maintained the tension to a high level.  George Buckland was quite stunning Terence Avery (childhood friend of deceased Edgar) who had to transform from radical political idealist to lost soul possessed with the spirit of his dead friend.  This was a powerful performance as was Tracey Pearce as Elizabeth, the grief-stricken mother.  

Congratulations to the Production Team (the necessary backbone for any production) whose hard work, in this instance, led to a polished show that was full of memorable and thought provoking moments. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.