5.14°C Paul T. Davies reviews Common Ground Theatre Company’s latest production at the Headgate Theatre.
Known for evenings of inspired silliness, Common Ground Theatre Company here offer something a little more serious yet still playful and involving. A proper ghost story with a suitably claustrophobic lighthouse setting, there are some genuine moments that make you jump, performed by three excellent actors.
Lighthousekeeper Issac Troop is a grizzled veteran of the service, sticking firmly to the rule book and maybe bordering on the edge of insanity as he does a long stint at Toll Point Light. His relief, Jack Grimes, a chirpy cockney trainee, arrives to take over, but in the way is a ghost that only Isaac sees and hears, claiming he can’t leave until his purpose is revealed.
Pat Whymark’s excellent script gives the actors much to play with. Characterisation is strong, with highly evocative music (Singer Nany Barnes, Double Bass Alfie Harries) and projections, edited by Richard Whymark, adding to the atmosphere. William Oxborrow perfectly captures Isaac’s dourness, and hints of his past are brought out skilfully. Julian Harries brings loveable eccentricity to the Ghost, with some clever flicking of crockery and opening of doors, and Charles Venables brings great energy to Jack Grimes. All three work perfectly off each other, and, no spoilers; the revelations are handled with aplomb. The audience reacted with appreciative sounds at some of the twists!
One of the show’s most interesting aspects is the research that Whymark has done. I never knew that the rule book stated that there always had to be a Sunday service, even if the lighthouse keeper was alone, and Isaac sticks rigidly to this rule. Perhaps the ending wraps things up a little too conveniently, but getting there is very entertaining, and their loyal followers and new audience members won’t be disappointed!
You can catch the show on tour throughout East Anglia: Autumn Tour 24 | commongroundtc
