Jack Studio Theatre, Brockley
***
As you step over the threshold into the theatre, you are
taken back to the 1940’s on a cloud of smoke in the darkness. Wartime music
floods the room, just like the smoke, whilst you settle into your seat. It is
not entirely apparent as to why we are suddenly in the 40’s, when in fact the
play itself is set in the 20’s; such little modernisation seems to have no
effect upon the story whatsoever or have any meaningful bearings upon it
dramatically. However, due to the impressive set, with brilliant attention to detail,
from the GWR symbols printed on the glass of the windows of the train station
waiting room, to the ticket hatch and photograph of King Edward on the wall,
you are able to let this slide.
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| Photo: Tony Nandi |
The attention to detail is carried through into the costumes,
which are impeccable, particularly the train conductors’ uniform, which comes
fully fashioned with a gold pocket watch. But initially, the impressiveness
falls short with the acting. The passengers enter the waiting room with an over
acted 1940’s demeanour; from their voices to their physicality, everything is
stiff and entirely lacking in emotion. It is of course necessary to have the
attributes of men, women and couples of the period, with the appropriate
manners, but such over statement without any life behind it leaves a bare
shell, merely a ghost shall we say. The actors could be conveying love or hate
and both would be played in the same way, which made for a rather dull first
half.
Perhaps the passengers were simply just cold from having
been left outside in the night and therefore needed time to warm up once inside
before they were able to feel more lucid, free and candid with their emotions
and bodies. There was certainly a difference between the first and second half
in terms of performance quality; it seemed apparent that the older the cast
member, the better the performance. Both Chris Bearne, who played Saul Hodgkin,
and Tina Gray, playing Miss Bourne, were outstanding. They were the exceptions
in the first half, both entertaining and believable.
However, I must recognise the clear talents of Barra Collins
and David Palmstrom, who really display real character and ability. Indeed, the
rest of the cast did pick up also in the second half meaning the production became
more engaging.
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| Photo: Tony Nandi |
The Ghost Train is
an entertaining piece of theatre that is appropriate for the whole family,
perhaps a little too child friendly towards the end. It certainly contains a
lot of ghosts, but also has enough tricks up its sleeve to keep you on your
toes and leave you feeling warmed and satisfied like a glass of spiced mulled
wine.
This production runs until 5 January 2013.
For more information: http://www.brockleyjack.co.uk/brockley_jack_studio_whats_on.html
@BrocJackTheatre
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