The Hunchback of Notre Dame

The only time I have seen The Hunchback of Notre Dame was, as a child at the old Coliseum Cinema in Morpeth, when Charles Laughton played the protagonist in the 1939 film version. I have to say, I didn’t enjoy it very much and, in places, was rather scared. So, as you can imagine I was troubled by many thoughts – mostly negative, whilst contemplating our visit to the Phoenix Theatre to see our friends from Beaconsfield Operatic Society bring this classic Victor Hugo story to life.

On our arrival in the auditorium, the open stage revealed an impressive rustic set of the interior of Notre Dame Cathedral, built on many levels with a high mezzanine in front of a huge stained-glass window, a bell tower to stage left and a worship area down stage right. My first thought was… ‘How on earth are they going to be able to stage a musical on what was left of the stage?’, of which only about 5m x 4m remained.

However, as the action commenced and the story began to unfold – quite beautifully, my trepidations were all dispelled and we were treated to a production of the highest standard and quality. My fears about the set and shortness of room were also quickly erased as the excellent stage direction and the materiality of the surroundings became vital and contributed to the production’s obvious success.

I probably don’t need to explain Hugo’s well-known story, except to say it is a deep and emotional classic, timeless in its messages of love over physical appearance, of compassion for our fellow man, to stand up for what is right, and to rid the world of hate and immorality.

There was a lot of fine, emotional acting and singing by everyone in the cast; including the ensemble who were completely focussed during the whole piece. Newcomer Kailum James played the physically and mentally twisted role of Quasimodo the hunchback to perfection. For one so young; a very impressive performance. I hope they can hold on to him, as he will be much sought after. A massive part extremely well portrayed.

Kathryn Sabourn was every inch the perfect Esmerelda. Her singing was beautiful and well controlled with light and shade, her excellent portrayal of the gypsy girl was full of emotion and assuredness.

Michael Douglas as Quasimodo’s guardian Archdeacon Frollo, was the man we loved to hate. His control over the poor lad was scary and dark, definitely the villain of the piece and, I think one of the best parts I have seen him play. Nicely acted and sung with all of the right characterisation.

Alex Easten’s voice just gets better and better. He was Captain Phoebus, part of the love interest of the piece; beautifully sung and acted. James Thompson in the roles of St Aphrodisius and the Gentleman Soldier was also first-class..

As well as a very effective large chorus and ensemble including a choir, Beaconsfield also seems to be blessed with some very talented youngsters at present; not the least of which was Hannah Eldridge as Clopin the gypsy girl, Father Dupin played by Ben Gardner with a superb baritone range and Jamie Davey as Jehan; Frollo’s brother. Safah Alazzawi played a superb gypsy madame with a fine singing voice. In my opinion there were no ‘weak links’. Well done everyone!.

Director Shaunagh Burge must be fully satisfied that her vision of this show has materialised in many ways, thanks not only to the stupendous visual effects of set and costumes by Scenic Solutions and Costume Solutions (with Christine Morris and Laura Batey for the gargoyles), enhanced by superb lighting and sound design by Mark Turner of Brightstar Lighting and Darrin Roll, complimented by props from Amber Jessop and Managed backstage by Mandy Cardno, Mark Robinson and their crew. Congratulations all on a tremendous team effort.

Laura Batey’s choreography and movement was cracking. Managed well in the space available and used to bring the gypsy feel to the fore. It was a fitting complement to Shaunagh’s direction. The fight scenes were coordinated by Kathryn Sabourn and Rod Glenn… Well done!.

Last, but certainly not least was the music… Musical Director Susan Sabourn and her ten-piece orchestra, situated in the Green Room next door were superb and brought this very difficult score to life. Her obvious hard work with the whole ensemble paid off tremendously and I can only stand in awe of the result. Many congratulations Susan, on an extremely successful production. You deserve all of the plaudits coming your way this week.

I have completely run out of superlatives for this show. Difficult to direct and sing. One which took some guts to put on, but worth it as could be seen in the standing ovation at the end. Thanks for the invitation and the care and hospitality from Chairman Kathleen.

Councillor Peter, my companion Pauleen and I enjoyed our experience greatly.

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