Witness For The Prosecution

I was welcomed on arrival by Director Malcolm Hollister and was able to discuss the production with him and Co Director Lorna during the interval and after the performance.

This was the first time the society had used the venue, previously a redundant church and I must say that the change worked very well. The stage area was small but sufficient for the small set which mainly alternated between The Old Bailey and the chambers of the defence QC. The pulpit (serving as the dock), the witness box and various tables and chairs were moved around as necessary. Pride of place went to the judge’s bench which was elevated centre stage with a glorious ‘screen’ hiding the dais. I was told that the ‘screen’ and the facade of the witness box were produced from a photograph taken of a panel of the pulpit and reproduced in 3D with the coat of arms added. Quite magnificent and very effective.

Unusually the twelve jurors were seated on the front row of the auditorium.

Without exception this play was exceptionally well cast with a group of very talented actors playing to their individual strengths. Gareth Jordan-Burrows impressed as Leonard Vole who was accused of the murder of Emily French. Gareth showed a range of emotions as the play developed which were displayed in his facial expressions and tone of voice. He had tremendous stage presence.

Stuart Williams, as defending QC Sir Wilfred Robarts was a larger than life character with plenty of bluster and bonhomie. This was in complete contrast to his solicitor, Mr Mayhew, played by Mark Scanlon. A quiet and some what fawning character, he was well paired with the QC.

In contrast the prosecuting QC,Mr Myers, admirably played by Clive Clark, was professional and more businesslike in his dealings with the court. Leonard’s wife, Romaine was played by Cherry Locke who managed to retain her accent throughout. This was a most interesting role as she was a witness for the prosecution which created a number of anguished and angry exchanges between her and Leonard as the arguments between them grew heated, especially in relation to timings of events on the eve of the murder.

Fiona Haskell played, another witness Janet MacKenzie who was maid to the deceased. Fiona impressed here with some wonderful facial expressions and mannerisms which the audience enjoyed.

Adam Webster played Inspector Hearne, a rather sombre, old school type of policeman with a very thoughtful but dour manner and Joseph James was an aloof Judge, Mr Justice Wainwright, a stickler for protocol and legal precedent. Quite rightly!

There were several smaller roles all very well played and totally intrinsic to the plot.

The final twist took the audience by surprise and was a great ending to this absorbing production.

This was a stellar production by this talented society which owed much to the creative talents and innovative skills of Directors Malcolm and Lorna Hollister. Well done to everyone involved. It was a fascinating evening.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.