A classic story has been retold at The Arts Theatre Cambridge!
Malory Towers is adapted by the classic story from Enid Blyton. The story follows a group of girls attending Malory Towers school, as they navigate friendships, challenges and conflicts. This production is directed and adapted by Emma Rice. Rice has added loads of modern character whilst keeping the classic feel of the story. The addition of songs is well received and this show could be considered a musical due to the amount of songs, if they wish to present it this way.
The sets were colourful and bright, using different elements to tell the story, such as puppetry. Alongside this, the lighting was utilised effectively throughout the entirety of the show. I specifically enjoyed the cliff side visuals which were cleverly complimented into the piece. The songs are embedded into the story incredibly well, adding more depth to each scene rather than feeling unnecessary. The narrative has been cleverly crafted, to allow each character to feel multilayered.
Musician and Understudy is played by Emily Panes. The musical additions were fantastic and it was great to see Panes on stage alongside the others. Irene Dupont and MD is played by Stephanie Hockley. Hockley is able to balance both the music and Dupont very well: allowing time for both to flourish. Alicia Johns is played by Molly Cheesley. Cheesley embodies Alicia very well and is able to make each joke, though sometimes not funny, a laugh to hear. Mary-Lou Atkinson is played by Eden Barrie. Barrie is able to play this shy individual really well and add passion behind her performance.
Robyn Sinclair plays Darrell Rivers. Darrell is wrongfully convicted of an incident and Sinclair is able to balance the emotions of the character well. Anna Soden plays Gwendoline Lacey. Gwendoline is such a menace throughout the show but also incredibly likeable: no doubt due to Soden’s performance. She was fantastic in this role and was giving a strong performance. Zoë West plays Bill Robinson. West is able to bring the confidence to Bill which was well received. West’s vocals and instrumental additions were also great. Bethany Wooding plays Sally Hope. Sally is the reasonable member of the group and Wooding is about to portray this well. She acts as a leader and this is showed well throughout the show.
Malory Towers continues to run until Saturday. Book tickets now!
Tickets for this production were provided complimentary. Many thanks to The Arts Cambridge for organising.
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