TURN OF THE SCREW
Turn of the Screw
Connaught Theatre, Worthing
18-21 April 2018
From the opening dramatic, atmospheric scene the audience felt they were transported back to the 19th century and this classic Henry James ghost story was going to demand their full attention to unravel the mystery. This production of Turn of the Screw has been adapted by Tim Luscombe and is full of Otherworldy menace.
The plot centres around a young governess (Carli Norris) who is appointed to take charge of two orphaned children by their uncle in their country house in Bly. She is given the direction not to contact him and remain solely responsible for their safety and to take charge of the running of the house. The events that unfurl around the children make her aware that they are not alone and aided by the loyal, below-stairs servant Mrs Grose (Maggie McCarthy) she tries to seek the truth and protect the children at any cost. Fast forward thirty years and through a twist of fate, the governess is required to honestly explain her actions to the grown-up orphan Flora.
This classic play inspired the classic and better-known play Woman in Black. The play is suited to the classical drama niche audience. It is well staged and the lighting creates atmospheric tension to enhance the storytelling. The plot is sometimes confusing as the actors revert to their younger selves to recreate the series of events and double up as characters from the Other world but all in all the plot is easy to follow and the ending leaves the audience guessing as to what really happened as in all good ghost stories.
Reviewer: Sandra Jenkins
☆☆☆
Turn of the Screw is playing at Connaught Theatre Worthing until Saturday 21st April 2018.
£24.50, Concessions £22.50, Friends £19.50
or call Worthing theatres on 01903 206 206