Review by Paul Towers, 23/10/23
The Innocents by William Archibald
Directed by Diani Gatenby Davies
Produced by Leicester Drama Society (LDS)
At The Little Theatre until Saturday 28th October 2023
“A spooky treat for Halloween”
As we creep towards winter and Halloween is just round the corner the atmosphere is just right for a visit to The Little Theatre and the spooky The Innocents. Based on Henry James’ 1898 novella The Turn of the Screw this play premiered on Broadway in 1950 and has been a staple of amateur companies ever since.
In 1880 Miss Gidden (Amber Goddard) is the latest in a long line of governesses brought into the house to teach orphans 8 year old Flora (Amy Rainbow) and 12 year old Miles (Daniel Betties). The only other adult in the house is the housekeeper/cook Mrs Grose (Karen Gordon).
Despite her constant asking nobody will tell Miss Gidden exactly what happened to her predecessors. Slowly she unravels and tragedy ensues.
The small cast of 4 held the audience spellbound with especial kudos to the two actors playing the children. Such assured performances for ones so young.
Special mention has to be made for the sound design of Amanda Priestly and the lighting design of Jenny Harding & Martin Scott which certainly added to the atmosphere.
The Innocents is at The Little Theatre until Saturday 28th October
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