The Titfield Thunderbolt

It was a very talented group of individuals that jumped onboard the Titfield Thunderbolt this week.  The play based on the Ealing comedy by T E B Clarke, was directed by Lynne Whitaker.   Set in the village of Titfield, the eclectic bunch of local residents are largely devastated to find that the Titfield Railway Station is to be closed down, making the branch line inaccessible to the locals.  They set about trying to ‘buy out’ the station and continue the journeys on the Titfield line.  However, it’s not a straightforward business transaction as Vernon Crump (local entrepreneur) sets about to establish an Omnibus Company in competition to the traditional train. 

Melanie Murray as Lady Edna Chesterford, was a convincing Lady of the Manor, opening the show from the pulpit of St Mary’s Church with a most appropriate theme tune.  She also delivered some of the most challenging narrative in the production with great skill and vocal technique.  Alistair Cheetham took on two large roles Mr Blakeworth (Town Clerk) and Sam Weech (Local Vicar).  He managed to clearly define these two very different characters and gave Reverend Weech a most endearing childlike excitement at the prospect of driving a train.

Dominic Vinton played five characters, all very convincingly and his interpretation of Dan (an elderly railwayman and poacher) had great comic timing.  Jenny Roberts played the Station Platform Manager, Joan Weech and Miss Coggett – all very entertaining characters.  Mark McKever was a dislikeable Vernon Crump – as well as playing Mr Valentine and Mr Clegg.  All the cast were excellent in their roles and handled the transitions beautifully whilst cleverly referencing the similarities between the players.

With scenes set in the Railway Station, Pig & Whistle Pub, Church, the countryside and onboard the trains the use of digital screens was well managed to show the movement around the area and to explain the timeframe.  Props and set were swiftly and effectively moved around the stage.  Sound and lighting were well used to create atmosphere.  The set build team had clearly worked hard – even ensuring that a large-scale train appeared on stage.  The performance space and auditorium were used to great effect and the audience participation was well managed and good fun.  The costume changes were quick and effective and despite only five actors playing a total of fourteen roles, the audience were left in no doubt who the characters were.

It really was a ‘Runaway Train of Success’ and I pass on my congratulations to all the Performers, Crew and Production Team as this was a cleverly presented, funny and enjoyable production.

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