Woman in White

If anyone has read Wilkie Collins’ novel “Woman in White” they will know it’s a hefty volume, which makes it all the more impressive that it was successfully transferred to the musical stage and as a dramatic play. Add to that, he wrote it in the 1860s, alongside works by Charles Dickens himself, it has certainly passed the test of time.

Constance Cox created the dramatisation with many twists and turns, but this still has to be conveyed to the audience, based around a fixed set, over a period of some 8 months. A challenge superbly fulfilled by Director Jen Eglinton.

Thankfully for those unfamiliar with the story, this was succinctly summarised in the programme. Without repeating it here, each character fulfilled their role in a way that was quite gripping, with plenty of intrigue, conspiracy, misery and lighter moments.

It is almost impossible to draw out any outstanding performances from the cast of 11, as they were all of high quality and virtually equally matched. The dialogue was clear and well paced, particularly as the story unravelled and urgency crept into solving the mystery.

The set was well constructed, authentic and impressive. The Victorian costumes were too and handled well with poise as the actors moved in, out and around the set.

I enjoyed this production and as the Director hoped, left with a smile and looking forward to many more from The Nonentities Society. Thank you for the invitation and welcome received.

Bruce Wyatt

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