Gaslight

“Gaslight” seems to be doing the rounds at the moment. This is the third production in the area performed recently.

A very atmospheric set which was superb with the furnishings and feel of a Victorian household.The lighting was excellent, especially with the dimming at various important moments in the play, which added to the gloomy feel overall.

The cast of five people were Jack & Bella Manningham played by Nick Elliott and Lorna Hollister,Ex Dectective Rough played by Richard Fawcett,Elizabeth the Housekeeper with Anne Lillie-Foster and Nancy the Maid with Demi Teager.

I felt that Lorna gave a very ggod account of her character Bella,the dialogue was clear and well spoken and it was good to see in the final scene how she took command and control of the situation and showed real spirit.

Nick Elliott as Jack a very brusque cruel husband , who was doing his best to convince Bella she was losing her mind, varied between an outwardly very correct man who also had an eye for the maid Nancy and also other ladies it seemed.A demanding part.

Ex Detective Rough, a very important character in the plot was played with  concern towards Bella by Richard Fawcett, and with good reason as he knew  the history of Jack Manningham and was totally convincing in getting the terrible details of Manningham’s violent past through to Bella in a manner which was the turning point in her very unhappy life.A great scene when he revealed himself to Manningham as the Detective from many years before when a violent crime was committed by Manningham.

Elizabeth the Housekeeper played by Anne Lillie-Foster had a very difficult task in trying to appease Manningham while at the same time supporting Bella. Slightly hesitant in responses, whilst thinking how best to answer and keep Bella safe.

Demi Teager as the saucy maid Nancy was bright and quite disrespective of her Mistress,but had her eye on the Master who gave her every encouragment. A well played character.

Well done to Belinda and the cast, and again compliments on the set which was so good.

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