Shadowlands

The latest production by MADS, of Shadowlands presents an insightful rendition of the life of C.S. Lewis, showcasing a blend of solid performances, a captivating set, and adept direction.

Leading the cast was Richard Shute in the role of C.S. Lewis (Jack), and he delivered a sound and consistent performance that anchored the play. His portrayal of the esteemed author and scholar was both rigorous and engaging. Richard brings a presence to the stage; he captured Lewis’s intellectual rigor and emotional vulnerability with equal finesse. His delivery of the character’s inner turmoil and evolving relationships was moving at times and the philosophical elements of the script were thought-provoking in his voice.

Opposite him, Rachel Donlon, who played Joy Gresham, demonstrated considerable skill too. Her performance was commendable and brought a solid dimension to the character. She was able to capture the spikiness of Joy whilst also convincingly portraying the softer elements when alone with ‘Jack’.   The chemistry with Richard as Lewis, provided a heartfelt depiction of their complex relationship.

The young actor, Max Brown, as Lewis's stepson, Douglas, delivered an impressive performance. His portrayal was both natural and poignant, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the familial dynamics depicted on stage. His interactions with the adult actors were particularly well-handled, providing a refreshing and genuine element to the production. His reactions to the action in which he wasn’t a part, were genuine and showed an innate understanding of stagecraft. The accent never faltered too. One to watch!

Chris Allies gave a characterful Major WH ‘Warnie’ Lewis with nuanced delivery and the friends, Professor Christopher Riley played by Steve Donnelly, Rev ‘Harry’ Harrington given by Lee Brown and Dr Maurice Oakley by David Eades made a lovely trio. Each brought a distinct element to their renditions that worked well in the group scenes – the pompous Professor, the steady Reverand and the sardonic Dr.  Well done!

The medical staff, waitresses and marriage officials were all played proficiently by Jeanie Davies and Grace Tomlinson, who provided everything needed to portray such roles.

The set design deserves special mention. It was delightful and thoughtfully constructed, evoking the period and environment with a charming and cohesive aesthetic. The home area could have looked a little more like it belonged to an eccentric scholar, but the use of colour and space allowed the audience to be immersed in Lewis’s world and it complemented the narrative well. Congratulations Lauren Nixon and Stuart Riley.

Direction by Robert Copeland was also praiseworthy. The play flowed smoothly, with each scene transitioning seamlessly into the next, a nice and consistent use of fluidity throughout. The pacing was well-maintained, ensuring that the emotional and dramatic arcs of the story were effectively realized. Act 1 was a rather drawn-out affair, full of exposition but it led up to a dramatic end and Act 2 was full of movement and life. A nice balance.

Overall, this production of Shadowlands was a commendable interpretation of the beloved play. With strong leading performances, a solid supporting cast, an impressive young actor, and an enchanting set, it delivered a moving and charming theatrical experience.

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