The medieval mystery plays were performed by town guilds and local citizens. They were a cycle of plays depicting scenes from the Bible, from Creation to Doomsday. Initially set up to spread the teachings of Christianity, they soon became popular as entertainment, and, in the contemporary setting of Christ Church, writer Rod Green has given the story of Noah a modern twist. A warning about climate change and about how billionaires and global companies are destroying the world is simply and effectively staged. At its heart, it is a delightful piece that celebrates the local community and conveys a real spirit of fun and togetherness.
Director Sara Green has a huge cast to manage and achieves it with style, the company moving well through the story. Staged as a concert within a play, it begins with beautiful singing by Gill Wilson, and music is woven intelligently throughout the show. Joe Sales is a perfect Noah, bringing gravitas and experience to the role, with Lorraine Howarth effective as his (initially) nagging wife. The Fat Cats are particularly loathsome with their attitudes, which the activists and Christians effectively argue against. However, the entire company are given time in the spotlight, and it feels unfair to single out so many people – everyone does a good job.
There are some beautiful touches and reveals, especially the building of the Ark and the rainbow, with the design and build by Jane Fisher, Steve Peeling, and David West never interrupting the flow of the action, but becoming part of it. Despite some first performance nerves, it was good to see such a wide age range on stage, all working together to bring a fresh twist to one of the most well-known stories ever told.
Well done to the entire company – and to Colchester Theatre Group.

