Studio Theatre Studio Theatre, Salisbury Anne Waggott 12 October 2024
Without a programme synopsis and secretive social media publicity from the company, it’s clear that Studio Theatre love a mystery… and who doesn’t?! Their cryptic clues for Night Must Fall are as tantalising as their latest production is beguiling – and surely that is the appeal of a psychological thriller, especially when it’s done as splendidly as Studio Theatre have achieved. With respect to what the company have set up, there will be no spoilers in this review, either – suffice it to say if you miss seeing this production, you will absolutely miss out!
Emlyn Williams’ classic 1930s psychological thriller, new to me, is a brilliantly constructed play, lulling the audience into a false sense of security with well-placed humour and character observations before ramping up the thrilling suspense; both the material and performances kept me completely engaged from start to finish, on the edge of my seat, and genuinely with hairs standing up on the back of my neck towards the climax of the play.
Sally Marshall (Director) and Sophie Townsend (Assistant Director) have overseen a wonderful character-driven production, where facial expressions show the thought process of each individual character as much as possible, and the lines, angles and extent of sitting to standing positions of the actors not only provide an interesting perspective, but also emphasize the power levels between the characters. As the play also references the class status, employment and laws of the period, this is another aspect that raises the overall quality of the production.
Enhanced by a brilliantly dressed country cottage scenery, with minute attention to detail with the array of period props, costumes and hairstyles, subtle yet atmospheric lighting effects and a wonderful selection of scene change music and sound effects, perfectly timed, you could be forgiven for thinking this is more appearance over substance. However, it is the first-rate performances that will stay long in my memory.
Joanna Daniels is a force to be reckoned with as cantankerous Mrs Bramson, reminiscent to me of Dame Judi Dench, with impeccable timing, characterisation and delivery, while a tiny slip of the tongue was brushed aside with professional ease.
Adam Barge is outstanding as Dan, seamlessly switching between charming, coercive, creepy, engaging, sleazy and dangerous. He is mesmerising each time he appears on stage, drawing you into his world – whatever that may actually be! – and not even a wardrobe malfunction could detract from his excellent performance.
Clare Green is enthralling as Mrs Bramson’s niece, Olivia; although it may appear on the surface that her face is expressionless, it actually shows the depth of characterisation she brings to the role (as referenced in the script later in the play), and I was drawn to her every move as they linked to the narrative in the most convincing and authentic way.
Lucy Salmon brings a feisty levity to proceedings as the bustling and proficient Mrs Terence, whilst Jamie Pullen commands the stage with authority and efficiency as Inspector Belsize.
Whilst this review has highlighted the major protagonists, make no mistake – this is a comprehensive and cohesive ensemble production, and there are no weak links in the lineup. It has been my pleasure to review Studio Theatre on numerous occasions over the years, and something that has always impressed me is the way that they integrate new talent with vast experience. That is also clearly the case with Night Must Fall, which bodes well not only for the success of the current production, but also the depth and quality of future shows as well. I can’t wait to see what they produce next!
Night Must Fall continues from Monday 14 – Saturday 19 October at 7:30pm each evening. Obtain your tickets from Salisbury Information Centre or online for an evening of thrills and chills – you won’t be disappointed!