Sleep No More

A seasonal spine-chiller is just the ticket at this time of year and - along with the delicious mulled wine - is becoming a much appreciated annual fixture at the Arts Club. This deliciously old fashioned ghost story is actually a relatively new play but has more than a whiff of the glorious days of repertory theatre and the theatricality of 'rep' oozed from its pores, every bit as much as the chilly atmosphere seeped into the auditorium as the story progressed. The impressive lighting opportunities available from the newly installed system at the Clubhouse Theatre were put to good use and helped to create a suitably spooky ambience, which worked well with both the spot-on performances and the 'abstract impressionism' of the stage design to create an all-round winner.

The plot revolves around a 'play within a play' concept (mounting a cursed production of a hoary old Victorian shocker - 'Murder by Poison' - in a theatre still haunted by the ghosts of its ill-fated debut outing) and gave all the performers scope to flex their acting muscles in multiple roles. Tony Lewis gave a strong performance as Micky, the play's director and wisely decided to err on the right side of camp in his portrayal. Just as I was beginning to miss the presence of a pullover loosely knotted around the neck and nestling over the shoulders (a staple item of all stage directors' wardrobe surely?!) I need not have worried: we were rewarded with a sighting of just such a totem of theatrical flounce in the second act. In all seriousness though, Tony did a great job of providing the solid centre of the drama and excelled throughout. Trainee ASM Sal was brought to life by Lisa-marie Hunt with a good deal of flair and she too didn't overstep the mark into send-up territory as she clomped her way through her bit part as the maid in 'Murder by Poison'; hopeless line-reading a speciality! Sara Ashton Woodhead brought poise and professionalism to the role of mum Jenny with Zak Tayler providing very strong support as her son Ben: here is a performer to keep an eye on for the future as he gave a very good performance indeed. Geoff Baron gave a quietly dignified sheen to the theatre's resident 'strange old man' who, of course, knows more about the ghostly goings-on than the rest of the cast but who - as is the nature of these things - is summarily dismissed by all as a bit of a crank: another lovely character here from Geoff. Resident repertory lothario Pete was nicely played by David Pilkington who gave a fully rounded performance of some depth; a real 'flesh and blood' character who again, provided solid support. Spine-chilling spectral support from beyond the grave was provided by Madison Ashton as Eva (double casting here meant that I didn't see Hannah Fowler's Eva but I'm reliably informed she was just as good in the role) who sent the temperature plummeting upon her every visitation to the stage: excellent work Madison. With a heart-rendingly poignant voiceover role from Zachary Ashton, the cast list is complete with not a weak link hiding away within it. Alison Bell's direction steered the production in exactly the right direction and gave the proceedings a touch of class, as well as providing the audience with a carefully considered piece of theatre which never once strayed into the overly melodramatic, despite all temptations to go down the route of send-up.

There were a number of very effective moments throughout the play and staging which had clearly been thought through with some care, with a good number of scenes providing more than just a slightly spooky moment or two. The production taken as a whole was an all-round success and really drew the audience in to the mysterious events as they unfolded. Technical support, costumes and set design were all first class and added much to the feel of the production, helping to provide a total entertainment package which was very much appreciated by the large audience. This was a thoughtful piece of entertainment which really worked and as presented here, proved to be an inspired choice. My thanks as always for the customary warm welcome and I look forward to my next visit with keen anticipation. The Arts Club have done it again: long may they continue! 

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