The Woman in White

“The Woman in White” was written in 1861 by the well-known Victorian novelist and playwright, Wilkie Collins. His writing exposed the plight of Victorian women and this adaptation by Constance Cox brings out all the aspects of his famous novel.

The experienced director, Julie Webb, ensured that the actors portrayed their characters perfectly with language and mannerisms appropriate for Victorian times; likewise, the costumes and set. With scenes of tension, romance, and a touch of comedy it was obvious that many hours of hard work, research and rehearsals had been done to achieve such a high standard of performance.

The eleven actors were very realistic and perfectly cast, with excellent diction and characterisations. The manner of speech in the Victorian era was so different to that of today but all the actors were perfect and never faltered. Good quality acting from everyone.

Lee Sanderson was brilliant as Sir Percival Glyde who marries the heiress Laura Fairlie, obviously for her money. Although he has a title, Sir Percival does not have any money of his own and as with all mysteries, there are always secrets that people go to great lengths to keep hidden. Sir Percival appears to have a few of these which, if revealed, could ruin his reputation and he will do anything to keep them hidden. At first, Percival gives the impression of a very kind and loving man, but as soon as he marries Laura, his character changes to a man with a quick temper. He soon flies into a rage with everyone in the house and tries to take control of his wife’s life. Lee handled this character superbly.

The heiress, Laura Fairlie, is a typical Victorian lady and she is already having doubts about marrying Sir Percival but is persuaded that he loves her. However, Laura is a determined young lady and will not agree to signing over her inheritance to him. Glyde tries everything possible to manipulate her into signing over her money, but Laura holds fast. With all the different emotions required of Laura, Yasmin Angove-Middleton gave an excellent performance.

Fortunately, Laura is supported by several family members and friends: her half-sister and wise solicitor, Marion Halcombe; Mr Gilmore; a young man, Walter Hartright; Mrs Vesey, the housekeeper; plus, a cantankerous uncle, Frederick Fairlie. They all care deeply for Laura.

Although Glyde is the master of the house. Her half-sister, Marion Halcombe, is a very strong-willed and well-educated lady who doesn’t stand for anyone upsetting Laura and the rest of the household. Through sheer determination, Marion begins to unravel a secret regarding Sir Percival and Jessica Vardy gave a terrific performance in giving this character such great depth.  

Lucas Gunson was first-rate as the loveable Walter Hartright, an art teacher, who has fallen in love with Laura Fairlie and will lay down his life to save her from the fate that may await her. With help from Marion, he is constantly watching out for Laura - true love never dies. Another strong performance from Lucas.

Pamela Abrahams giving a very good characterisation and performance as the dutiful housekeeper, Mrs Vesey. Pamela has recently joined Phoenix Players and we hope to see her again in future productions.

Michael Hague-Flint gave a very impressive performance as the disagreeable Frederick Fairlie. Nothing was ever good enough for him and he did not have a kind word for anyone.

In a wheelchair, he constantly complained about his health, but was finally challenged and his illness turned out to be a sham. As Frederick Fairlie’s hard-working servant, Louis, Jason Vardy had very few words, but his mannerisms and facial expressions said it all.

As part of the scheme, Sir Percival invites Count Fosco and his wife as guests to join him and the family. Sir Percival owes money to the Count who realises that the only way he is to be re-paid is to manipulate Glyde into persuading Laura to sign over her entire fortune to him by whatever means. However, all does not go according to plan. The Count, with his rapidly changing emotions, is not an easy character to play but Jon Wilson did a great job. Jon mastered his part in only four rehearsals since the previous cast member was unfortunately unable to continue with the role. Jon has never been on the stage before and I’m sure he’ll go far. Countess Fosco was also part of the plot, doing exactly what her husband told her to do.  Elaine Veal handled this role with great ease and elegance.

I have seen Gregg Muscroft many times over the years, and he excels no matter which part he is given. Gregg’s powerful voice matched that of Laura’s solicitor Mr Gilmore, who ensured that no-one was going to cheat her out of her inheritance.

Throughout the performance we see a lady dressed in white – who is she? Her name is Anne Catherick and as a young girl she knew Sir Percival Glyde and knows a dreadful secret from his past. To stop her telling the truth he has her put into an asylum, but she escapes but evades capture by Glyde and Fosco, but courageously tries to let Laura know the truth before she dies. Anne looked so much like Laura and her character enhanced and added intrigue to the plot. Yasmin Angove-Middleton not only played Laura, but also Anne Catherick and is a very talented and accomplished actor. First-class performances.

Although Mrs Catherick does not get introduced until later in the plot, her’s is a wonderful character. She holds the key to Sir Percival’s secret and will not be bullied out of telling the truth. Gaynor Robinson’s performance was very good.

As the storyline progressed, we saw relationships develop and change as characters get manipulated into saying and doing things that are untrue. Of course, as with all mysteries, we have the treat of murder, blackmail, and lies. The members of the audience were certainly kept on the edge of their seats while concentrating with the plot and wondering about the outcome. Did Sir Percival Glyde get his comeuppance? – of course he did. And the young couple? – as they say, true love always wins.

Congratulations to the director, Julie Webb, the cast, production team, set designers and the wardrobe team, who had several quick changes to deal with. This truly was a very professional production.

Thank you for the invite a most enjoyable evening, which we thoroughly enjoyed.

Sue Cox

NODA  NE Drama Rep Reg 14

 

 

 

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