Don Quixote

The performance started on arrival into the hall, where the ‘Stagehands’ immediately went to work introducing us to this performance in the ‘round’. We were given our instructions, outlining our responsibility to laugh on cue! Our senses immediately went to work trying to guess how the central structure of a canvas, open topped ‘box’ would figure in what was to follow…

As the action got underway it became clear that it was everything your imagination wanted it to be... What an absolute pleasure it turned out to be. Funny, moving, engaging, surprising and a wonderfully inclusive evening. In fact I’m almost ashamed to admit that I fully understood ‘Don Quixote’; probably for the very first time! Tim Hinchliffe managed the mammoth part of Don Quixote with commitment and apparent ease. Oliver Graveston’s Sancho Panza was so well placed – really convincing both in exasperation and real affection for his master – cheeky, smart, and kind! A great partnership. Enormous congratulations to everyone else coming and going throughout the play. Lords, ladies and ‘The Populace of La Mancha’ - you were the ‘glue’ throughout. You worked your socks off as peasants, sheep, and ‘windmills’. I was particularly envious of your athleticism - being able to fall down and get up so easily – your director certainly worked you hard. And – you rose above and beyond …word perfect and always in character. Super. 

I must just mention the variety and quality of the costumes. They all worked perfectly. It may not have been intentional, but the way the coloured lights reflected off Don Quixote’s breast plate was quite magical. A super evening – I hope all your performances went as well. Congratulations to Elliot Huxtable, your director and all your cast and crew.

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