My Cousin Rachel

This was my first viewing of this very famous play by Diana Morgan based on the novel by Daphne Du Maurier. The play opened to a splendid set which looked for all the world like a room from a Baronial  Hall, just at it was intended. It was very well built and well appointed. This play is a piece that keeps the audience guessing until the final scene. There were a few performers who I have not seen before at this venue. It is so important for any society to introduce new actors and they acquitted themselves very well tonight. There were too many prompts and a lack of pace was distracting.  Because of the limited space available on stage, entrances and exits  were difficult at times but on the whole the the actors coped with them admirably.  Perhaps some incidental music should have been played at the many gaps between scenes? These are some of the points which could have improved this production but some fine performances by the actors restored the balance. I was particularly impressed with Tony Woolmington as Seecombe, the family retainer. A beautiful characterisation with excellent timing. It required tremendous concentration with all his many appearances and exits, so reminiscent of Eric Sykes one of my favourite comedians.  Claire Davies and Judy Mallam are to be congratulated on again ensuring the capacity audience  enjoyed their evening. Societies such as this are the backbone of Amateur Theatre and I am always amazed at the end product knowing the difficulties faced by all concerned. I love my visits to R.A.T.S. Winter or Summer but this was special on a beautiful Spring evening. Many thanks for your warm welcome to my wife and myself.

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