Gaslight

As the curtain rises we se, Bella (Loz Jackson) is clearly on edge, and her stern overpowering husband (Ciaran Kiely), who is flirting with the servant, making matters worse. Bella is concerned about Jack's unexplained disappearances. Not telling her where he goes each night, increases her anxiety. As the drama continues, it becomes apparent that Jack is intent on convincing Bella that she is going insane. A detective called Rough (Ciaran Kiely) leads Bella to realise that Jack is responsible for her anxiety, Rough explains that the flat above, once occupied by Alice Barlow, a wealthy woman who was murdered for her jewels. But that the murderer never uncovered them. Jack goes to the flat each night to search for the jewels, and lighting the gas lights causes the lights to dim in the rest of the building. Rough convinces Bella to assist him in exposing Jack as the murderer, which she does, but not before she takes revenge on Jack by pretending to help him escape. At the last minute she reminds him that, having gone insane, she is not accountable for her actions. The play closes with Jack Manningham being led away by the police.

Before the opening of the play Ciaran Kiely (Director) takes a moment to explain to the audience that the leading man had been taken ill, and his part will be read in. I found out later it was 3 days before opening. This would be disaster for any society, but not for NADS. Ciaran being Director and playing Detective Rough, also played Mr Manningham with the book disguised in some places, but he was so talented he could have been Mr Manningham. I was concerned that at the end of the play they are on stage together and get into a fight !!...This scene was cleverly rearranged with a body looking like Mr Manningham (or Rough) and pre recorded dialogue - so difficult. This dynamic thinking of Ciaran's worked, and if one didn’t know the play one would have not known, any different.

What a set, so strong and perfect design,(Alex Bailey). along with props so much in period (Barbara Bone). Loz Jackson as Bella Manningham kept her anxiety with great poise, we felt for her. Ciaran Kiely, Director, Rough and Mr Manningham, directed this play with such professionalism, he was able to do the dual parts with ease. Hats off to you Ciaran for saving this play. Nancy (Sarah McKinney-Green) gave us a good naughty maid and she looked the part. Elisabeth (Jenny Walton)  was truly the “I know nothing sir” - good solid performance.

NADS this play should go down as one of your greatest, and bravest to carry on under such circumstances….Well done.!!!! 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.