Treasure Island

Every other year Chesil Theatre will use the fabulous settings around Winchester to deliver an outdoor production, one always looks forward to it. This was also a special "Gala" performance, and we were, by invite only, requested to attend early. As with outdoor performances you are very much in the hands of the weather, happy to report here that the sun shone and we were treated to Treasure Island.

Adapted by Phil Wilmot, from Robert Louis Stephenson’s novel, we took our seats and were greeted by smallish, but highly effective stage for the action to take place. This was an all-encompassing performance, using all the skills and abilities from both the senior members but also the junior members who made up the principles and cast of thirty six. Given that this was outdoors, the diction was clear. Every word was heard, allowing the audience to be able to follow the story. The rats and mermaids with their great matching costumes and comical ditties looked as if they were really having a great time, this of course comes over, giving us a real treat. Simple and effective lighting, along with good stage management from Angie Barkes kept the show flowing. One thing of note here is the set was transformed during the interval into a boat, including the erection of a twenty-five-foot mast and associated "Pirate" sails and flags. Fascinating, it really added to the overall inventiveness of the show.

All the principles played their roles with great confidence and given that this was the opening night, any mistakes or missed lines were not noticed. A testament to the obvious hard work and dedication throughout the rehearsal period by Sarah Hawkins and her team. As always, a very polished and hugely enjoyable evening was had by all. Thank you, Chesil, another triumph.

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