The Bridges of Madison County

One can always rely on Gallery to find the rarely performed pieces for amateur theatre and here again we have another premier for the area. It was based on the 1992 bestselling novel by Robert James Waller which was made into a film directed by Clint Eastwood and starring him and Meryl Streep. In 2013 Jason Robert Brown added the music and lyrics which was premiered in London.  Director Steve had loved the film, saw the musical version and was determined to produce it, although, with the limitations of performing it in their Studio, the staging had to be severely simplified and adapted to their intimate performing area. This American romantic drama certainly has captivated its audiences this week.

Starring Charlotte Curtis in the role of Francesca Johnson who, leaves her beloved home town of Naples, marries an American soldier and then returns to his home farm in Iowa.  In a brief romance Charlotte then falls in love with an American photographer, Robert Kincaid (Duncan Broatch),  who turns up at the farm to photograph the bridges in Madison County  for  National Geographic.  They both play their roles with warmth, compassion and tenderness. Both totally aware that Charlotte is married with two teenage children but their consuming love for each other leaves neither wanting to think about the future decisions that have to be made. The difficult never ending score is performed well by this pair who gave quality performances and were perfectly cast, showing emotion and passion in their 4 day love affair.

Charlotte’s husband Bud is played by Mike Cook who typifies  the ‘down to earth’, ‘no nonsense’ character of an American farmer. Liam Abernethy and Misty Taplin  are  confident and talented in their portrayal of the 2 teenage children Michael and Carolyn.  Their nosey but loveable neighbours are played  by the very believable pairing of Phil Cory and Lesley Burrows; a perfect cameo for this pair who really capture the comedy in their roles.  Finally we briefly see Kincaid’s estranged wife Marian, (Aimee Salmon)  singing a love song in a beautiful and captivating voice. 

The four piece band under the direction of Olly Wood give a polished and impressive performance with this challenging score.  They are all positioned behind a gauze onto which is projected numerous stills to create the atmospheric backdrops; an immense task which Steve did personally to source all the photos.  The props were seamlessly changed in a choreographed manner losing none of the pace.

Costumes by Sally Broatch epitomised the period and were particularly effective as near to the end of the show, time has passed, the children grow up and fashions change. This is also evident in the hairstyles under the careful hands of Charlotte Sampson.  

Congratulations go to Steve, Sally, Olly and all their team and cast in creating this beautiful and emotional show to their very appreciative audience.

Catherine Dixey. NODA East Representative District E12

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