THE THRILL OF LOVE

The first thing that peaked my interest was the beautifully painted back drop – with the feel of a Soho street, great perspective that drew you in, and made it feel as if the characters could actually walk up the street.  Well done to Felix Cecconi.

I fully understand the technical restrictions for WDS, and after speaking to the Director know that a backdrop is their preferred way to set a production at the moment.  I liked the stage set of the bar one side and other actions being accomplished in the remaining space.

Lighting was very suitable throughout, actors projected well, but I was sometimes aware that sound effects needed some fine-tuning, particularly the final crowd calls – I couldn’t distinguish what it was to start with, and whilst appreciating that it was a background sound, it would perhaps have more general effect if it had started loud so that we knew exactly what it was, then went down to a softer level, as it could have been a very startling impact in the context of the play.  I also felt the gunshots at the outset needed to be more marked – there would have been a ricochet effect as Ruth delivered the shots, and the actual sound needed to be louder and maybe more staccato.  Just small touches that would have added to the tension and grittiness of the subject matter.

Costumes were good – very much within the era and all looked fresh and nicely worn.  

I felt a little more pace was needed at the start, with more intention and purpose from Jack Gale (Bruce King) as the Detective Inspector heading up the case, particularly as he set the scene with his opening words.  I did get the impression as we went through the play, that Jack was getting more sympathetic towards Ruth’s plight, and in the end did not agree with the verdict.

Ruth Ellis (Abi Longland), gave us the reality of a woman caught up in a slightly sleazy world in the 1950’s and one, if happening these days, would no doubt have had a different outcome for her.  The look was great, with some telling and humorous lines delivered with conviction, whilst also showing a world-weary outlook.  

Vickie (Bailey Killner), a first timer with WDS showed a good understanding of her character, I was very impressed with her portrayal, which contrasted well with the slightly older ladies in the cast. Bailey was bright and forthright in her belief of how her life would play out. Very well achieved.

Doris (Louise Donaghy) had a lovely character to portray, which she did with aplomb and a real feeling of how she cared for Ruth, whilst not compromising herself - I was very impressed.

Sylvia (Jan Westgarth) brought her undoubted skill to the part, a typical matriarchal type given the business they were all engaged in – I always value what Jan brings to a cast, with a wealth of  experience and perception of her role.

Overall another intriguing play, with difficult subject matter, that was generally handled sympathetically by the cast.  My thanks to WDS for their hospitality, always a pleasure to visit and see very different and thought-provoking plays.

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