Carrie's War

It was a pleasure to return to the Dylan Thomas Theatre for my second visit in just a few weeks, this time to watch Swansea Little Theatre perform the play Carrie’s War by Emma Reeves. The play set during the Second World War follows the story of Carrie Willow and her younger brother Nick as they evacuated from London to a small Welsh village.

As the play is related to the Primary School Curriculum ,  I was fortunate to be able to attend a school matinee, and before starting this review I would like to congratulate the society on this initiative and also at this time ask them to pass my compliments to every school in attendance on their behaviour during this performance. To witness a full auditorium of under 11’s so well behaved was very refreshing indeed.

I was very impressed by the set  designed by Clare, it was split into four distinct areas with the Evans’ house dsl, the Gotobed dsr, Mrs Gotobed’s bedroom usl and the remainder of the stage as the path to Druid’s Bottom.

The costumes were representative of the period and the lighting for most part worked really well , I must comment that on occasions I was struggling to hear the dialogue. I am aware I was sitting near the rear of the auditorium but it isn't a huge space.

There is quite a large cast of 14 in this play and I must congratulate each and every one of them for their performances.

The supporting cast of Darren Morcam, Alexander Sheldon, Richard Fowler, Adam McKenna and Sally Woodward all played their roles well. Mrs Gotobed was played by Sandra Miller.

The roles of Hezibah Green and Mr Johnny  were taken by Tracey Lewis and Steve Maddern, both played these roles really well, I was especially impressed by Steve’s portrayal of the disabled Mr Johnny, not an easy role to play. 

The bullying Councillor Evans was played by Jordan Struel-White and his downtrodden sister Lou  by Angharad Davies. These two characters also had lines to say in Welsh, not the easiest of languages if you are not a natural welsh speaker but they managed them well. Jordan had a booming voice and Angharad played the caring Aunty figure well.

The three main characters of Albert Sandwich, Nick Willow and Carrie Willow were played by Rowan Melbroke, David Gwenter and Molly Clery. These are difficult roles to play as the majority of the play they are acting as children. All three actors did this really well.

It was especially difficult I would say for David as his character was really young and he did well in not dropping out of character through the production.

Rowan gave a good performance as the slightly posher Albert but I think both Albert and Carrie's naivety showed up well especially with the kiss sequence.

The main role of Carrie was taken by Molly , who gave a strong performance in what is a very substantial role. She was totally believable as the young girl , and I liked her character as the older Carrie. 

This is not an easy play to perform but I think the company did a good job of it.

Congratulations to Clare and all of the cast.

 

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