Captain Corelli's Mandolin

Afforded the usual warm welcome and after the presentation of their Achievement of Excellence for Treasure Island, I took my seat. Chesil theatre is a small theatre in an old 13th century church in Winchester. 

Captin Corelli tells the tale of the emerging relationship between Pelagia, daughter of the local Doctor, Dr Iannis and the captain, an Itallian army officer and the invaision of Kefalonia. It expolores the complicated social interaction between the Greek (predominantly women) and their Italian invaders (under German orders).

The Stage at Chelis is small, the sedt design is always inventive, yet with simplicity. This was no exception. with the front of Dr Iannis house to back stage left, and entrance and exit to Stage right and through the house door, Stage left. The stage right back wall was left blank to project old World War two images from the invasion of kefalonia. That was very moving and added so much to the overall production. The lighting design was simple yet effective and the diction from all concearned was clear and concise and deliverd at a good pace and with confidence.

The cast was led very well by Tom Dangerfield as Corelli, Alec Walters as Dr Iannis, Emily Baldock as Pelagia, their interactions with each other were very moving and wer very ably backed up by Arthur Wood as Mandras. Alison Georgiou as Drosoula and Tess Rowley as Lemoni/Antonia.

This was a very emotional evening, it resonated with many (if not most) of the audience, most iof which had good, if not first hand, knowledge of WW2. It was superbly well done and is to be hugely congratulated. Another Chesil Triumph. Thnka you for inviting me.

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