RETURN TO THE FORBIDDEN PLANET

Anyone who knows this show (which I admit I didn’t before now), will appreciate the ‘tongue in cheek’ Shakespeare text and references with some iconic music from the 50’s and 60’s.  The story was a little difficult to keep tabs on, but the robotic projection giving guidance was appreciated!

The set was excellent – although of necessity it gave slightly less performance space than usual.  Because the decision was made to have a separate band, and not have the actors doubling as musicians, the band had to be accommodated on stage, that said, they donned costumes and integrated into the action.  A very experienced band which showed in the quality of the music, super guitar solo from Kester Tunstall, and splendid exit music featuring the drums and guitar – a shame the whole band wasn’t lit for this, they deserved their moment in the spotlight! A slight downside was that the drums were a little loud at times, so maybe if an on stage band is used again a drum screen should be erected?

I thought the use of projections to support the action was very good, slightly ‘comic book’ but right for the type of production, flashing lights, and ‘balls of fire’ for the relevant numbers, all created a good looking fun production. 

I felt this was an ensemble piece, in that although there were solos, there was a lot of ensemble work, with good harmonies, musically sound, with some surprises in different vocals from the cast. Choreography was good, in that it reflected the different types of numbers, but felt quite restricted when everyone was included.

Costumes were suitable for the concept and colourful, but boiler suits are not the most flattering!   Ariel (the Robot) had a great costume and definitely looked the part.

Three people stood out for me – James Allen (Ariel), a super robotic action, maintained throughout, words and voice echoing the mechanical actions – a really good interpretation.   Liam Rowlands (Cookie) also really invested in the uncertainty of the character, interacting with the other actors well, I enjoyed what he did with the part.  Heather McGeachy-Irwin (Science Officer/Gloria) showed a lovely voice and again interacted empathetically with Cookie and Miranda – nicely achieved.

Matthew Allen (Prospero) created a suitably slimy, nasty character, a good foil to the other more amenable characters, with Sam Rowlands (Captain Tempest) showing a very good singing voice, and his confusion where Miranda was concerned. 

It was good to see Jayda Moyse (Miranda) back on stage – I liked her transition from the rather shy young lady, to more of a siren to attract the Captain.

Jemma Watkeys (Navigation Officer) was dominant within the group when trying to convey what was happening around them, with Rosy Clinton (Bosun) appearing as a male character at the start before reverting to the female she is – all looking good. 

The Space Cadets (Ella Couldridge, Helen Rudderham, Naomi Star and Joanna Smale) were very bright and lively, I enjoyed their integration within the cast, they coped well with the rather cramped conditions for their choreography, and sang well.

My thanks to DMTC for their hospitality, good to meet the Director and get some insight into the production, a fun evening.  

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