Gaslight

They say that you learn something new every day and that is a blessing I enjoyed when reading the programme for Oxted Players production of Gaslight. Up until this point I had heard of Gaslighting as a term used to describe certain domestic abuse cases, but had no idea of the root of the phrase. It is the very disturbing behaviour of systematically undermining an individuals' sanity.

What an unnerving contemplation for the subject matter of this wonderful play by Patrick Hamilton. As you might well imagine, it was then a huge undertaking for the cast of seven players to deliver a sensitive and yet realistic portrayal of the story. However Peter Shores cast delivered beyond expectation utterly captivating us the audience and dragging us unwillingly into the terrifying reality of the lead Bella Manningham, played brilliantly and always convincingly by Julie Sliverman. The manipulative villain, Jack Manningham, was equally skilfully delivered by Peter Damesick who even drew an unexpected Boo from the audience on his walk down, so credible was he in the part of the abusive husband. Chris Butler as Detective Rough gave sterling plausibility to the hero of the piece allowing us at least some comfort and hope that our damsel in distress might be saved.

The Victorian period piece was entirely set in the drawing room of the Manningham residence, which had been adeptly and yet modestly recreated in a fine set, which was provided by the members and friends of the group and painted by Patrick Tricker. This was thoughtfully lit by Richard Grogan and I particularly enjoyed the realism of the dimming of the front of house rig to coincide with the dimming of the gas lamps.

Pippa Bridges and Tricia Whyte must take the final walk down for me however as the provision of exquisite period costumes for the play was the finishing touch that took it from tremendous to exceptional.

Well done Oxted! Expectation is always high - but you never fail to deliver beyond.

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