Goodnight Mr Tom
Information
- Date
- 17th June 2022
- Society
- Clacton Amateur Dramatic Society
- Venue
- The Westcliff Theatre Clacton On Sea
- Type of Production
- Play
- Director
- Alex Bass
- Assistant Director
- Rachael Welham
I was warmly welcomed at front of house by Brenda White-Robinson and also spoke later with Alex Bass , the Director and Ralph White-Robinson, the Chairman.
This was a challenging and ambitious production for the society, not least in the depiction of the various scenes within the play. By resourceful and imaginative use of the basic and somewhat abstract set, coupled with excellent sound effects, props and lighting, set designer Terry White, with Alex Bass, created the illusion of multiple changes of location. I especially enjoyed the “ hustle and bustle” of a busy London railway station and street.
I was very impressed with the group of young people most of whom had not acted before. Some quite amazing talent was in evidence which can hopefully be harnessed and developed for the future.
Callum Hazelton, as William Beech the young evacuee sent from London to live in the country was superb in his characterisation and actions and played an excellent role. Nathan Sherman, as Zachariah Wrench, who befriended William, was lively and energetic on stage and projected his voice very well. Maisie Cooper, as Carrie Thatcher, also had good stage presence. A very credible performance from all the young people in the cast and well done !
Gary Higgins, as Mister Tom , had the lead role in this highly charged, emotional story with some unexpected comedy threads. Playing a grumpy widower, still grieving the death of his wife and son during World War One, he is forced to reluctantly house William. However, he becomes very attached to the boy over time and gradually displays great tenderness and empathy towards him. Tremendous acting from Gary !
Tina Magdalena , as William's wayward and abusive mother, Mrs Beech, was loud and flamboyant, as demanded by the character. Charlotte Root played two roles, as both Mrs Fletcher and the busy social worker and moved seamlessly between the different characters. John Thomson played the rather officious ARP Warden, Mr Miller and Ian Reed-Golden was Mr Hartridge.
Several other actors took two roles. David Lye played the vicar in a very understanding manner and also Mr Skelton whilst Keith Sippitt was the busy, slightly harassed Dr Little and also the ticket collector. Jo Thorne was a very convincing billeting officer trying to persuade Mr Tom to house William and also played Mrs Hartridge whilst David Thompson played Charlie Ruddles and also joined the chorus of Londoners. Nicole Eve played both Glad and Miss Thorne and Lisa Winterford was Miss Miller and a very bossy nurse !
Congratulations to Tara Welham who worked tirelessly as the puppeteer making Sammy's actions and expressions so lifelike.
Stage Manager Tracy Lias worked wonders making sure the correct settings were in place at the appropriate times. Costumes and hairstyles all truly reflected the 1940s styles during the war.
Congratulations to Director Alex Bass for his imaginative and innovative interpretation of the script and the development of the young actors into their roles. This was a considerable achievement ! Well done to everyone involved in any way.
This was an engaging and absorbing production which the large audience enjoyed immensely, as did I.
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