Love from a Stranger

Love from a Stranger  is based on a short story by Agatha Christie and as one would expect it is full of twists and turns and with a surprise at the end. Cecily is engaged to be married but suddenly winning a large sum of money has made her question whether there could be more to life than just "settling down". On the scene comes an exciting, confident stranger and she is swept off her feet. The next we know she is married to this stranger and they are living in an isolated cottage in the country. She is happy, they make a charming couple, but as the weeks roll by we begin to see him in his true colours. He is a dangerous man, a womaniser and a murderer but is Cecily really as innocent as she appears?

The relationship between the two main characters alters as the play progresses. Bruce no longer the  charming suitor  becomes instead the controlling, bullying but sickly husband. Cecily loses her confidence and becomes fearful and obedient. This was dealt with  well, especially the rapid changes of mood and flares of anger. There were  excellent appearances from some minor characters. Entrances and, possibly even more importantly, exits, totally in character and completely convincing.  

There was a major scene change required, Cecily's apartment from the opening scene must  be transformed into the cottage and, although on an open stage, this was dealt with smoothly and speedily. Some flats were rotated, some were rolled off stage. It was Interesting for the audience to watch and did not spoil the flow of the play.

The costumes were good. Well suited to the various characters and those for Cecily and Bruce showing the change from city living  to their life in the country.

In the second act the sound of the barking dog appeared to come from stage right but  the actors reacted by looking out of the french window towards stage left.  Also two actors leaving the set together via the french windows then parted, one stage left and one stage right. Small points I know but ones to be aware of for the future.

This was a very enjoyable evening and it was obvious from the supportive and enthusiastic audience reaction that both the choice of play and its presentation were much appreciated.

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