The Railway Children

The Railway Children is Edith’s Nesbit’s famous Children’s story, first published as a book in 1906 and this was a dramatic version, adapted from the original story by the production’s Director, Janet Astley – a really brave undertaking

The excellent ‘home-made’ set was comprised of a very detailed and fixed set for a range of scenes, from the Family’s Semi-Detached London Villa to the ‘Three Chimney’ Cottage’, the Station Porter’s home and also the Railway Line and Station. The fold-out and back section for the station platform was a nice surprise and most ingenious. I loved the concept and the execution of the train as a delightfully painted and carried extended sheet by some of the younger cast members and the use of the smoke machine for steam. It was clever, charming and worked really well.  .  Properties were also great – they looked to be of the period and were in the right places at the right time.

The lighting was generally very good throughout and sound was generally also very efficient and well-controlled. A lot of thought and preparation had clearly gone into the costuming, hair and make-up which was very good – of the period and most attractive There was a lot of detail on these, particularly to match the very detailed set, so very well done here too. Perhaps not so critical, for a play, but the incidental music used was appropriate and well-done. Choreography was limited, other than for the landside scene, which I really liked.

This production had real performance strength in depth. Stage entrances and exits were well-timed and well executed. I don’t believe there was a prompt and if there were any issues, they were very well-covered by the cast. Using Bobbie as the commentary voice to the audience worked brilliantly. It really drew the audience into events onstage and the combinations of current comments and flashbacks worked very well. Changing the railway setting to Portishead was also a nice touch.

This was a real ensemble piece, but all three of the Railway Children were absolutely terrific and maintained their characters really well, all the way through the show. Tony Sutcliffe’s Perks was also a lovely character part, complimented with a wonderful performance.

Portishead Players have an excellent reputation in the region for high-quality drama and this show has only helped to enhance that – very well done.  What is particularly pleasing is your depth of talent coming through, which bodes well for the Society’s future. Congratulations to the whole team at Portishead players - those on-stage, off-stage and back-stage on a wonderful production and a wonderful evening’s entertainment. I really enjoyed the whole experience and thank you for the invitation.

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