The Ghost Train

This play was written in 1923 after its author, Arnold Ridley, found himself stranded on an isolated branch line station in Gloucestershire. Ridley, a teacher turned actor, was a veteran of two world wars, surviving the Somme, who, after a long career as a jobbing actor found fame and fortune as Private Godfrey in Dad’s Army. The Ghost Train had an 18 month West End run and was subsequently made into a film in 1941. During a ‘lean spell’ Ridley sold the amateur rights to this much-performed play, foregoing a very good steady income.

I enjoyed Under The Tower’s production of this show where some fine acting was on display.

The first couple entering the Waiting Room at Fal Vale are the Winthrops. David Deegan was every inch the sound, successful businessman Richard Winthrop but from the start it is clear that Elsie, his wife, played by Di Wyman, is less than happy with him. I especially liked the way that Di changed from a wife who is angry with her husband to a woman terrified by what she fears may happen. Charles and Peggy Murdock are on the first night of their honeymoon – they too have concerns beyond their immediate predicament. Daniel Burrows gave a very good performance as a young man soon to leave England and his new bride to find work as well as a considerate new husband. His performance was mirrored by Hannah Johnson as Peggy in a fine level-headed performance that avoided the temptation to indulge in melodrama.

That was provided by Richard Llewellyn as the over-excitable Teddy Deakin, an upper-class twit who, by pulling a communication chord on the train so that he can retrieve his hat, is responsible for the group being stranded. A very amusing performance though at times Teddy’s over-excitement interfered with Richard’s diction.

The final traveller, Miss Bourne – suburban, churchgoing, conventional – was beautifully represented by Vicki Roberts.

Newcomer Emily Lyon gave us the hysterical Julia Price – a performance of a performance as it turned out! Showing admirable maturity for her years, this was a demanding role, well played.

Saul Hodgkin is the central role in this play, setting the scene from the start. Ade Wyman was this grumpy stationmaster, unwilling to give any help to the stranded passengers but at the same time ensuring that they do not stray out of the Waiting Room with the terrifying story of the ghostly train which means death for anyone who sees it. Ade made an admirable job of this and ensured that at least a fair number of the audience were on the edge of their seats.

Ross Green, Andy Richards and Brian Roberts provided good support to the principals.

Under The Tower work on the stage of a church hall – a small space – but made the very most of it with a good set and suitable furniture and props. I was especially impressed by costumes, make-up and deportment which were all very 20’s.

All in all a very entertaining evening – congratulation to Alistair Way, directing his first show with this society.

Many thanks to the people at Under The Tower for making me feel so welcome.

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