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Stars explained: * A production of no real merit
with failings in all areas. ** A production showing evidence of not
enough time or effort, or even talent, and which never breathes any real
life into the piece – or a show lumbered with a terrible script. *** A
good enjoyable show which might have some small flaws but has largely
achieved what it set out to do.**** An excellent show which shows a
great deal of work and stage craft with no noticeable or major
flaws.***** A four star show which has found that extra bit of magic
which lifts theatre to another plane. |
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Mindgame
Sutton Arts Theatre
***** AUTHOR Anthony Horowitz is one of the
most prolific and successful multi-media writers around, writing books,
TV series, films, and plays. His best known work
includes the bestselling teen spy series
Alex Rider ,
and TV series Midsomer Murders,
and Foyles War. Mindgame was originally written as a novel,
before Horowitz adapted it for the stage, premiering in Colchester in
1999 before transferring to the West End the following year. A taut
psychological thriller, it is particularly well suited for the tight
close spaces of amateur theatre. With just four characters and a cast of three,
this is a demanding production for the cast. Mark Styler is a brash
young writer, determined to visit notorious serial killer Easterman as
research for a book he is writing. Dr Farquar is not keen to facilitate
the interview, Nurse Plimpton is a strangely anxious nurse in
attendance. What follows is a forensic exploration of the
public’s fascination with murder, sadism and serial killers. What
separates those who enjoy reading about it, to those who do it? Who is
interviewing who? Who is the victim? Who are the guilty parties? Coming
out of the theatre audiences will also name check Quentin Tarantino,
such is the clever dialogue and macabre dark turns. This is a particularly difficult play to review
without revealing key plot developments. What I can say is that if you
like twisting psychological thrillers, you will love this production. Ben Field delivers a fine, nuanced performance
including many difficult soliloquies. Joseph Flanagan is a marvellous
foil as his inner self is revealed. Liz Webster plays a supporting, but
vital role, and is frighteningly vulnerable when cornered. Theatre goers should be aware that there are some
very convincing violent scenes, but that they are lightened by a witty,
wry, erudite, contemporary script. It has the audience laughing out loud
to relieve tension, and to enjoy some waspish black humour. The
durability of a Marks & Spencer shopping bag has surely rarely been
similarly tested. Suffolk audiences will require a sense of humour. Director Vida Green has done a fabulous job.
Technically, it is a challenging show, and with many extended speeches,
keeping the audience engaged is a constant concern. Fortunately, her cast are superb providing no
weak links, just wonderfully compelling performances. The intimate
atmosphere of the physical theatre is exploited marvellously as we
become part of events unfolding at Fairfields Hospital. John Islip and
his team have constructed a credible hospital set which remains in situ
for the duration with only minor amendments. An unusually edgy choice by Sutton Arts, a choice
which was wholly vindicated by the response from an audience who were
captivated by the play’s progress, and who demonstrated their
appreciation by more laughs than I have heard in many comedies, and a
rousing reception at the end. Mindgame runs till 31st October; I suggest that
liver is off the menu for dinner beforehand. Gary Longden
22-10-15 |
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