An exciting piece of work inspired by the ever-changing Norfolk coastal landscape!
On the Edge is written by Robert White and is directed by Simon Thompson. This marks the final production as part of the Summer Rep at Sheringham Little Theatre, running for the first week of September. The story is set in the fictional Norfolk village of Suffenham, where David awaits the upcoming storm threatening his home on this eroding cliffside. When David refuses to leave, a group of visitors attempt to persuade him to move. However, David has his own reasons and continues to wait for the inevitable storm destruction. The play was one of the winners of the 2025 Coastal Playwriting Competition and is very relatable to the current climate of the Norfolk coast line.
Thompson has directed this production with passion for the source material, leaning into the humour and the coastal messaging. The staging is well decorated with the living room of David’s home. This helps set the scene and allows for the visitors to impose on David’s life. The story itself feels incredibly Norfolk, topical and humorous. The show’s topic is important to cover and the production captures the poignant coastal situation whilst balancing humour. Alongside this, the coastal storyline mixed well with the emotional weight David felt; making for a satisfying ending.
Hannah Smith plays Kelly, a local landlady in Suffenham. Smith added to the comedy value alongside Cummins making for a fun late addition. Susanna Harding plays Helen, David’s ex-wife. Harding allowed for the conversation between David and Helen to feel genuine and heart-felt: adding emotional weight. Jonathan Houlston plays Richard, a young Environmental Officer. Houlston had a polar approach to Cummins which made the group dynamic energetic to watch.
Jonathan Iceton plays Marcus, Lynn’s son. Iceton is overdramatic in this production which worked very well in contrast with Cummins: bringing high quality humour and acting. Rachael Cummins plays Natty, a Coastal Community Volunteer. Cummins is a huge highlight of the production, with her incredibly strong Norfolk accent. Her humour is spot on and made the audience laugh throughout. If there is one reason to watch this show, it is Cummins’ phenomenal performance! Playing the lead role David is Donald Forbes. Forbes is able to capture the emotional weight of David’s situation well. His dynamics with cast allows for comedy to work incredibly well amongst these difficult topics.
On the Edge continues to run until Saturday 5th September. Book your tickets here!
Tickets for this production were provided complimentary. Many thanks to Sheringham Little Theatre for organising and putting on a wonderful Summer Rep. All the best with the remainder of the run!
Max
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