Ghost Train

 

The play follows an assorted group of railway passengers who spend the night on the platform despite the warnings of a “Ghost Train”. The show evolves from a Socio-suspense drama in to a spy thriller, as it transpires that the “Ghost train” is actually a real train being used to smuggle fire-arms and ammunitions in to the country by Soviet Revolutionaries.

 

 

 

Upon entering the auditorium, we are greeted with some very impressive scenery, red bricked walls dressed with various cargo to establish a train station theme. Once the entire set was exposed upon the opening scene, we could fully appreciate this set structure, beautifully dressed and having many elements to give this set a “wow” effect. A wood burning stove with a chimney that climbed the entire height of the set, ticket office, frosted windows, and some appropriate props drew us into the location and time. Lighting and the addition of the special effects such as smoke, sound effects were very well executed indeed.

 

Director, Jen Brassington, who I understand stepped into this role only a few weeks prior, did an exceptional job in bringing the suspense thriller to life, with the most colorful characters bringing certain realism to the piece. Her vision for the play took us on a journey back to the 1920’s and drew us right into the action. If I am to be very picky, I did find some issue with blocking, many occasions we could not see a character speaking as they were being masked by another, being aware of the space and line of sight from the audience is key. This did not take away from the quality of performances within this production, it is merely a suggestion for the future.

 

Elsie Winthrop was gracefully played by Georgina Wynne, strong, independent and sharp exterior gave us full insight to her character within seconds of her arrival on stage. It was nice to see her personal journey from this strong start to a more fearful, anxious and softer character. Excellent work by this lady, she also worked well with her on-stage husband. 

 

Sam Curwen mastered his role as Richard Winthrop, husband to Elsie, he used a good deal of energy to portray a no-nonsense type. Well educated, well dressed and very well spoken, giving us a good impression of his status in society. His character, the voice of reason tried to take the lead on most of the decisions for the group. Sam gave a great performance, however he did at times find himself in a position where he was blocking a speaking character.

 

Daniel Wood brought his role of Teddy Deakin to life, exasperating, annoying, easily distracted, he was a pure joy to watch.  He threw himself into this role entirely, bringing the quirkiness of the character out and allowing for much reaction from the other passengers. A wonderfully physical performance. I would have liked to see a change in character once he had exposed himself as an agent. This of course is only a personal preference.

 

Sarah Francis, gave a great performance as Miss Bourne, a bird loving spinster. The voice given to the character was excellent and allowed for a real comic performance to come about. This character had very little in the way of script (she sleeps for the entire second act) but this did not stand in her way of giving a really excellent performance.

 

Autumn Evans gave a truly beautiful portrayal of Peggy Murdock, a delicate voice brought softness and at times some comedy to the production. Ever present on stage, there were times when you found yourself just watching her as she was always in the moment and reacting to the scene. Excellent work.

 

Damon Hill as the newly wed Charles Murdock was ever attentive to his new wife and they were a great pairing, they worked very well together. Damon gave an energetic performance and we saw some nice comedy come through from him. My only suggestion would be to slow down the dialogue to ensure the audience can fully absorb what is being conveyed.

 

Mike Clowes delivered a thoroughly enjoyable performance of Saul Hodgkin. What a story-teller, he had such a great speaking voice, his telling of the ghost story had everyone gripped and hanging on each word. A well-seasoned player was a wonderful addition to the production.

 

Emily Brassington delivered a performance beyond her years as Julia Price, such intensity and confidence this character had. She drew us into her story, we felt for her, we believed in her story and she completely fooled us all. Only upon her exposure as one of the main Soviet revolutionaries, did we realise her capability.

 

Tracey Cater Gave a good performance as Dr. Sterling, this I understand is her first role on stage. Considering this, Tracey was confident in her role and will certainly improve upon this moving forward.

 

 Herbert Price played by Callum Hall, had a very clear speaking voice, he delivered his role well. He had very little stage time to establish his character but he did well in convincing us that he was fearful for his sister, Julia’s well-being. 

 

Jackson played by Chris Mann, a small role but it didn’t stop him giving a good performance when he appeared on stage. 

 

The costumes were excellent bringing out a great sense of 1920’ English fashion. I especially loved Elsie Winthrop’s costume, simply stunning. Miss Bourne wore the most accomplished headpiece which added to her character nicely. The ladies’ hair was lovely and I must mention that  the vintage style that Peggy Murdock donned was beautiful and completely in keeping with her character.

 

Overall, a good production, put together very well. The pace in act two could have been improved however I am sure it improved as the week went on. I love a good thriller and this fulfilled my expectations. It felt as though I had also stepped back in time with you all, you engaged the audience so effectively and delivered a great show.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.