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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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Humanity shines through fog of terror
Taking on all the roles in an act of
terror is a cast of five: Laura Coxson, Daniel Beaton, Anna
Garrett, James Kay, Rachael Pickard Slaughter of the Children Hall Green Little Theatre Youth Theatre ***** In September
2004, news of a most shocking event in recent world history was
broadcast – more than 1,100 people, almost 800 of them young children,
were being held hostage in a school in Beslan by
Chechen rebels. At the end of
the harrowing three day siege more than
300 of the hostages were dead, almost 200 of them children. Julie King's bold play Slaughter of the
Children is a beautifully crafted, compassionate work that explores
the thoughts and feelings of those involved - parents, children,
teachers, officials and even the terrorists/freedom fighters are given
a voice. The result is a powerful and humane piece of theatre. Roy Palmer's production is outstanding. The
acting throughout is focussed and compelling. Under his direction the five strong cast -
Daniel Beaton, Laura Coxson, Anna Garret, James Kay and Rachael Louise
Pickard move effortlessly from one role to another, from child to adult,
parent to terrorist, engaging with different emotions and experiences. The result is a play that reserves judgment and
one that shows people linked through a common humanity. Nevertheless, it
is the fear of the children and the anguish of the parents that provoke
our pity and distress most of all and make us question what could incite
anyone to do something as cruel as this to fellow human beings. Mr Palmer's design uses various shades and tones
of grey to bring these shadows from our recent history to the stage; the
outline of the weapons used stencilled on the floor provides a constant
reminder of the violence of the situation and the moody down and side
lighting adds to the nightmare effect, helping to create a sense of the
horror of the event. This is a superb piece of theatre and runs until
Saturday 06-08-11. Jean Wilde |
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