Ladies In Lavender

Adapted for the stage by Shaun McKenna and based on the film written and directed by Charles Dance from a short story by William J. Locke. It tells the story of two spinster sisters living in a small Cornish village set in 1937 where memories of the first world war are still apparent. Janet and Ursula are living out their lives knitting, listening to the radio, and enjoying their coastal view. This existence is shaken up when they find a body washed up on the shore outside their home. After discovering the body is in fact a young man, who is still alive, they tenderly nurse him back to health, discovering in time that he is a Polish violinist by the name of Andrea Marowski. 

The staging was cleverly crafted into four separate areas, denoting Andrea’s bedroom, the ladies living room, their cottage’s garden and the beach. Credit to Tessa Pina for the lovely painting of the beach and sea backdrop. The actors should be applauded for managing to contain their movements within the respective sections. Set dressing/props were good and looked authentic for the 1930’s. Lighting was well designed and we were in no doubt where the action was focused. Scene changes with gentle violin music playing added to the atmosphere. Costumes were also appropriate for the era.

The main characters Janet (Carol Arman-Addy) and Ursula (Yvonne Hegarty) both showed their acting experience by being able to put across their caring nature for this stranger. There were some lovely moments of humour as well as moving ones particularly when Ursula realised that Andrea had to move away. Well, what can I say about Matthew English as Andrea. What an inspiring young man he is, having a hearing disability, first acting role, and an incredibly talented violinist. A very confident performance.  A lovely part for Margaret Bown to play, was that of ascerbic housekeeper Dorcas. The Cornish accent and the perfect comedy timing added light relief. Ella Scott as the Russian  artist Olga recognised Andrea’s talent. She gave a confident convincing performance. Nick Noakes portrayed well the lovelorn Doctor Mead thwarted in his pursuit of Olga and jealous of her interest in Andrea. I must not forget the radio announcer – very clearly spoken Martin Arman-Addy!

Jacky Richardson’s direction of this strong cast  was a delight to watch. This was a gentle story of missed love and kindness to strangers – perhaps a lesson we could learn today!  

© NODA CIO.  All rights reserved.    

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.