Hound of the Baskervilles

This script was written to be performed in modern dress but with the option of reverting to the Victorian era if so wished and that is what had been decided.  The set, as we have come to expect from Salterton Players, was most attractive and gave a true feeling for those times.  This was much appreciated by the audience who applauded as the tabs drew back, revealing the stage.  Costumes too were in keeping, adding to the authentic feel.  The lighting was in safe hands and the sound effects were good with the howling of the hound being quite chilling.  Sightlines can sometimes be a problem with a stage that isn't raised but the direction had been thorough, and at all times it was possible to see the important action.  Diction too was excellent.

I found the script just a trifle odd and a little disjointed. This was not helped by the tabs coming across at each change of scene.  This does tend to take the audience's attention away from the story.  It is more usual to perhaps lower the lighting to denote a passage of time while either a member of the crew or an actor makes whatever small changes are required to the set.  

The characterisation was good with the mode of speech and mannerisms giving a lovely feel for Victorian times.  Although the pace was just a tad slow the various personalities with different speech patterns and a variety of emotions, including angry outbursts, kept the attention of the audience.  The dramatic entrances at moments of high tension were a good contrast to the mannered Victorian conversation.  

It is exciting to see that a number of new actors had been cast.   There must be for every actor a first time on stage but the direction had clearly been excellent because it would not have been easy to pick the newcomers from the others, several of whom had years of experience behind them.  

A period play, with the additional demands that are made regarding the building of the set and sourcing the costumes, highlights the teamwork that is necessary to bring a play to the stage. The Salterton Players are to be congratulated on presenting a charming if somewhat scary entertainment for its enthusiastic audience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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