Deathtrap
Information
- Date
- 20th April 2023
- Society
- Dovercourt Theatre Group
- Venue
- The Dovercourt Studio, Dovercourt
- Type of Production
- Play
- Director
- Margaret Coleman
I was warmly welcomed at Front of House by Linda Potter and Margaret Coleman and had the opportunity to talk with the cast and Director after the performance.
The scene was set in the study of Sidney Bruhl in his home in Thetford, Norfolk.
Immediately I was impressed by the innovative set created on this small stage area. Resembling a study, there was a desk (which became 2 desks during the play) an array of furniture and an attractive fireplace with a realistic fire. Entrances and exits were via a pair of garden doors and a hidden staircase at the back of the set. There was an imposing display of weapons and firearms on the wall including an axe, a crossbow and guns, mainly sourced from re-enactment enthusiasts.
There was plenty of surprise and indeed suspense in this fast moving play with lots of twists and turns in the plot.
The main character of Sidney Bruhl, an ageing but once successful playwright, was very ably played by Rob Porter. Rob interpreted this role really well adapting his manner from placid to demanding to aggressive as the plot unfolded.
Liz McLeod, as Sidney’s wealthy wife, Myra, originally a rather quiet character, became a forceful personality and had some wonderful facial expressions. She used the stage area very well with some good movement.
Jordan Brown, as Clifford Anderson, an aspiring playwright and one of Sidney’s students, was most nervous and anxious during his first meeting with Sidney, the great “Master” to discuss the play which he had written. However, he soon overcame this and developed into an argumentative and aggressive personality. Jordan developed this character really well.
Katherine Johnson had a lovely role as Helga Ten Dorp, a neighbour and mystic who appeared on the scene intermittently at sometimes inconvenient moments. She kept her accent strong throughout and as her face was hidden by a veil she used her eyes and facial movement to enhance the character. She totally looked the part of a mystic.
Greg McDowell played the character of Porter Milgrim, the family lawyer. Quiet and subservient to Sidney and Myra, he became extremely animated and assertive in the final scene ie a vastly different character and Greg enacted this change very well.
There were some good sound and lighting effects eg thunder, lighting and gunshots, operated efficiently by Richard Kemp-Luck.
Director Margaret Coleman did a splendid job of staging this production and bringing out the best in the actors. Many congratulations Margaret.
This was an impressive performance by this talented society which held the audience’s attention throughout. Congratulations to everyone involved in the production. It was well received and I enjoyed it immensely.
© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.