The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Victor Hugo’s gothic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame first published in 1831 set in 15th century Paris. The novel is now known as a classic and written at the time of cultural upheaval. Sadly, the issues that arise of intolerance of others still happens today. The original story is a harsh one showing the romantic era in extreme with passion and religion as the theme. It was the first novel to have a beggar as a major character. Since then, various adaptations have strayed from the original plot - one film even giving it a happy ending. Disney made it into a cartoon and put it to music making it very accessible. The Hunchback of Notre Dame has inspired films, plays, radio, tv, ballet, comic, musicals and video games. For a novel that Victor Hugo put aside for a few years before completing, it still stands the test of time: powerful and haunting. Director Steve Benson says in his notes it is one of his favourite Disney films and makes his directing debut doing this musical.

The set of the cathedral of Notre Dame was on three levels giving impact. Stage Left was a statue of Our Lady with candles and was back lit for effect in some scenes. Stage Right was two stone archways also with candles and a wooden truck that was used for a four-poster bed bed, a stage and the pyre on which to burn Esmeralda. Arches were at the sides of stage, which could be moved forward from both sides by the cast. At back was a wooden balustrade that also moved with good effect creating the corridors. The second level was where the gargoyles were and that had a stairway up to it. The next level at the top had ropes hanging down from the bells and a large stained-glass window behind it. Stage Right of it was a step ladder up to it. Set Construction was by John West and Dave McGreavy, Scenic Artist Sara Hassall. Properties by Anne Cocking, Janet Witt and Adrienne Wormald. Sound was good and had clarity by Lea Royse and Elodie Perrier. Lighting was particularly effective and added to the atmosphere. Lighting was by Nathan Emmison. Stage Manager was John West. Costumes all looked in keeping. Wardrobe by Eileen Reeves and Adrienne Wormald.

Lara Sydall was the choreographer, using the stage well and manoeuvring the large cast efficiently in numbers and the vibrant Romani dances bringing light relief and colour. Adrienne Wormald was the Musical Director and while this was backing tracks it was evident of the amount of work Adrienne must have put in to get the beautiful sound we heard and in Latin. Olim/The Bells of Notre Dame was powerful. Loved Transition to Bell Tower by the Gargoyle. Someday sung by Esmeralda and Phoebus was potent and Heavens Light sung by Quasimodo was evocative of his admiration of Esmeralda. Lovely.

Steve Benson directs, clearly working well with Lara and Adrienne to get a cohesive feel about this production. The stage was utilised well and the use of scenery moved by the cast enabled the production to flow and the tension to build. The ensemble and characters bringing energy to the stage. The Ensemble played a large part in this production and some strong images were created in the grey robes with hoods, then changing into townsfolk, gypsies or soldiers. This musical gives all a voice with the aid of narration spoken by various characters to move the story along.

Andrew Turton played Father Dupin and Townsperson. Julie Ogden played Brothel Madam and Townsperson. Dave Reeves played St Aphrodisius in an impressive costume and also took on the role of Official and Townsperson. I was intrigued by this saint and admit to Googling him. Beth Betham played Florika also a gypsy, Quasimodo’s mother and another Gypsy. Matthew Shalicker played Jehan, Qasimodo’s father and Frollo’s brother and also played Frederic, a solider. The Gargoyles who were Quasimodo’s friends and companions also doubled up as Gypsies were Catherine Hall, Gill Pollitt, Zoe Pollitt, Eileen Reeves, Emma Sutch and Hannah Worrall. Taking on human form when alone with Quasimodo they are his friends and encourage him. They worked well as a group and had lovely voices.

Olivia O’Connell takes on the role of Clopin leader of the Gypsies usually played by a man. I loved Olivia’s interpretation of the character, bold and feisty for me it really worked with her relationship with Esmerelda, bringing the energy and voice to the stage. Joshua Heal takes on the role of Phoebus the Captain. His character being slightly different form the novel in that he falls in love with Esmeralda in the musical. At first we are unsure of him but he proves his worth and Joshua had a good connection to the character.

Adam Manning takes on the role of Dom Claude Frollo, a Catholic priest at odds with himself, saving his nephew Quasimodo but treating him like a slave. He is a pious man and fights with himself over his infatuation with Esmeralda, when she rejects him, wanting her death. When playing evil, it’s good to see the Achilles heel and we get to see this through Adam’s interpretation.

Louise Gaffney takes on the role of Esmeralda the girl who draws the attention of the opposite sex - not always a good thing. She is feisty and knows how to take care of herself.  She is the only one who shows Quasimodo kindness. Louise had a great connection to the songs and they were sung effortlessly. As I said before the song Someday was sung beautifully as was Top of the World.  

Callum Burton was Quasimodo. Kept captive by a cruel uncle and ringing the bells had affected his hearing his only friends being stone statues. He was subservient to everyone, until he is offered kindness by Esmeralda he begins to see how cruel Frollo is. Callum gave a good performance of the character and it was noted how engaged he was when he was just listening or watching the action. Not over-acting, just being and his stillness drew you in, added to that a lovely voice - well done.

Walmsley Church AODS must be delighted with this powerful production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Thank you for the hospitality and looking after my guest Angela and I.

Liz Hume-Dawson

District 5 Rep.                                                                

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