The Hunchback of Notre Dame

I understand that recently the company have been struggling to get, suitable, availability in one of  Salisbury’s Theatres.  Therefore, with inspiration from their young and dynamic director, they took on the challenge of performing “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” in a Church.

St Pauls Church has a traditional appearance, but has a very modern and up to date interior,  The performance was effectively staged in the round  with the majority of action tacking place on a Dias in the centre of the Nave and the central aisle

 It was an impressive production that I thought was very enjoyable. The church made a fantastic setting and  with the wonderful period costumes it looked well, creating a great atmosphere.

 I was seated in a central position, and it felt very unusual to be sat so close to actors and also ,for ever, to be turning left or right as the action moved up and down the aisle.

There were some excellent vocals from the principal cast members and the ensemble.   However, on the night, there were a few sound balance issues. The backing tracks were allowed to overpowered the vocals in several places.  Also, a couple of times, the actors lacked projection and even though I was only about two metres away from them, it was difficult to follow their spoken words. 

 Towards the end of the show, a scene was set in front of the altar, I think it was when Esmerelda was dying.  Unfortunately from my position I could not see what was happening and it was also difficult to hear,  I remember looking around the church and thinking , “neither can the majority of audience”.

I thought that” Quasimodo,s” characterisation was absolutely superb, a wonderful performance, and I also  thought  that “Claude Frollo” was an outstanding performance, a beautiful voice.    

It was a very brave decision for this excellent  amateur company to produce “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” in a church. The finish product was a fantastic achievement and they can feel very proud of this amazing piece of musical theatre.

Well done, my congratulations go to all concerned

 

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