"The Duchess Of Malfi" by John Webster.

Nottingham Lace Market Theatre.

The play begins as a love story, with a Duchess who marries beneath her class, and ends as a nightmarish tragedy as her two brothers exact their revenge, destroying themselves in the process. 

Jacobean drama continued the trend of stage violence and horror set by Elizabethan tragedy. There's a real difference shown from the start of the play with its' lavish settings and ending up in a very dark place. There's plenty of bloodshed and some pretty horrific murders.

It's a love story as well as the story of a strong woman who knows what she wants but pays the price for her free-wheeling ways. She embarks on several affairs and spawns three children.

The language may take a bit of time to digest but if you can get on with Shakespeare's rhythm and rhyme, you'll have no problems with this play. This is also one of those plays that you will also need to really concentrate on, not only due to the language style, but because there are a lot of characters as well to get your head around, but persevere because this dark play, with the complex characters, is well worth the investment from yourselves.

The cast are absolutely superb, and I don't need to tell you just how excellent that they are, so I'll give you a bit of information on who they portray.

The Duchess, played by Mollie Kneeshaw, is a young widow and the ruler of the Italian town of Amalfi, is the intelligent, kind, virtuous sister of the Cardinal and the twin of Duke Ferdinand. Her brothers have banned her from remarrying because, they argue, her remarriage would ruin her honor and the honor of the family. Independent and defiant of her brothers’ wishes, the Duchess decides to secretly marry her steward, Antonio, for love, and has three children with him, keeping both the marriage and the children secret. 

 

David Field Duke Ferdinand, played by David Field. When rumours reach Ferdinand of the Duchess possibly giving birth to children, his anger is so overwhelming that his violent outbursts about the horrible ways he plans to revenge himself on her. There's some brilliant manic acting from David that really drives the unhinged part of Ferdinand home. 

The Cardinal is played by Chris Sims. Like Ferdinand, he tries to prevent the Duchess from remarrying in order to preserve his sense of his family’s purity and honor as well as his access to the Duchess’s wealth. Unlike the wild Ferdinand, though, the Cardinal is careful, calculating, and controlled.

 

Paul Spruce plays Daniel de Bosola, the spy planted by Ferdinand. He is a man who is used to doing the dirty work for others. This "spy" persona is played up really well, but without being too obvious, until you realise the storyline and what he has been hired to do.

Tom Pluse plays Antonio Bologna, the Duchess’s steward, and capably runs the Duchess’s estate, and is aware of what some of the other characters are like.

 

Michelle Smith is Delia, Antonio's friend and is completely loyal, and keeps a secret well!

 

Kathryn Edwards is Julia as well as Mad Person 6. Julia is Castruccio’s wife and the Cardinal’s mistress. She is the play’s stereotypical fickle female, with constantly changing affections. Near the end of the play, she becomes enamoured with Bosola, who then uses her to get the Cardinal to admit his involvement in the Duchess’s murder. When the Cardinal finds out that Julia betrayed him, he is not a happy bunny, and it's the kiss of death for Julia.

 Fiona Bumann plays Cariolla, the Duchess's loyal maid, but her loyalty results in the ultimate sacrifice.

 

Fred Baker plays Silvio, a courtier at Amalfi, as well as Pescara, a soldier and courtier in Ferdinand’s court Mad Person 1, Executioner 1 and a Helmeted Soldier.

 Richard Young is Castruccio, an old Italian lord plus Mad Person 2.

 

Lucie Conroy is Oderiga, a courtier at Amalfi attending the Duchess, plus Pilgrim 1, Mad Person 3 and Executioner 4.

 Jake Black is Grisolan, a courtier at Amalfi attending the Duchess, Pilgrim 2, Mad Person 4 and Executioner 5. 

 

Emma Rayner plays the Doctor to Ferdinand who diagnoses the Duke with the disease Lycanthropia, which to you and me is the belief that they are a werewolf, an Old Woman and a Servant.

Joe Moore is Count Malateste, a Roman courtier and friend of Ferdinand. Joe also plays an Officer, Mad Person 5, Helmeted Soldier and Executioner 3.

An incredibly hard working cast, each and every one of them.

Directed by Nik Hedges, I know that this is something that he has long wanted to bring to the Lace Market, and boy, was it worth the wait. As I mentioned previously, the audience has to invest their listening skills and have to work out who is who and what the relationships are between the various characters; it's not one of those plays where everything is laid out nice and neat in front of you; there are some very complex characters in this play. I liked the idea of the steampunk wardrobe and industrial style set design which added another level to the story.

Stage managed by Rebecca Steele and assisted by Jennifer Finlay, this was a smooth operation from an audience member point of view.

The set design is by Nik Hedges and the "curtains" that sectioned off the stage into areas really delivered the imagery of mass bloodshed, as did the stage itself as well as the stairs leading from the stage. You don't need to see bucketfuls of blood and gore with clever imagery like this, although there are a few slightly gory bits to watch out for!

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• Wardrobe for this show is an interesting one with the image of steampunk clothing with vibrantly colourful long coats and dark, round spectacles with top hats for some. Sharon Phillips and the team are responsible for this area of the production.
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Sound Design is by Jonathan Blacknell. There's a constant soundscape throughout the show, and even before the play starts properly - one reason to actually get in your seats before the start time because there's something happening on stage even before the opening lines. Amy Bermudez is the Sound Operator.

There's good use of light and shade, designed by Philip Hogarth, highlighting comic aspects against the barbaric dark murders and even touches on the supernatural, so there really is something to whet anyone's Jacobean theatrical likes. The dimmed light really creates that industrial, steampunk vibe. The Lighting team are Philip Hoagarth, Allan Green, Hugh Philip and Vaida Asipauskaite.

Loads of props in this play, sourced by Viv Briewrley, Nik Hedges, Rebecca Steele and Jennifer Finlay.

A brilliant evening of theatre with a deliciously dark theme which will satisfy the blood lust of anyone who loves a good meaty story of forbidden love and bloody murder.

"The Duchess Of Malfi" is at the Nottingham Lace Market Theatre until Saturday 23 May.

Photographs by Grace Eden Photography.

 "Summer Holiday - The Musical"

Act One

Iveshead School, Shepshed.

This show is so well timed as I found out recently that a massive new UK tour of "Summer Holiday" starts in June, so you can see Act One's production of the show before the big nationwide touring production.

Even before you reach the theatre doors, and this is something that I have noticed with all of the Act One shows at Iveshead, the journey from the building doors to the theatre doors is given thought to. The aisle you walk down is lit and all you have to do is follow the parade of buses to the main seating area, and getting you in the mood for the show.

Four London Bus mechanics, Don, Cyril, Edwin and Steve strike up a deal with London Transport. They do up a double decker London Bus, drive it around Europe as a hotel to win a contract. While on the road in France they pick up three ladies, Mimsie, Alma and Angie, on their way to a gig as the trio Do Re Mi, whose car breaks down. So the lads agree to offer to take them to their next singing job in Athens.

They also pick up a stowaway. A young, American boy called Bobby. Meanwhile, a young American female singer, Barbara has gone missing. Her mother, Stella (who is a VERY ambitious woman) and her aide, Jerry, take the story to the press and it makes the front page. They do all they can to make the story run for as long as possible.

Well we all know that Bobby is really Barbara because of the classic film which transposed into a very successful stage musical.

Mayhem ensues as, Don falls for Barbara. Eventually, when the eight bus riders reach Athens, they're arrested for kidnapping. In front of her mother, and a press conference filled with world-press, Barbara and Don declare their love for each other and the mother accepts the relationship (after realising how 'big' Don will become).

I’m a sucker for a happy ending and I love this musical and it’s wonderful soundtrack, “Bachelor Boy”, “Dancing Shoes”, “I Could Easily Fall In Love With You”, “The Last Time”, ”On the Beach”, "The Young Ones", "Move It" and “Summer Holiday” are just a few of the classic Cliff Richard hits in this musical. They just put you in the mood for popping off to the seaside on a double decker.

Jonah Robinson plays Don, the good looking hero of the story. He is a really good choice of leading man and Jonah is another one of those triple threats - in fact all four of the male leads are triple threats. Jonah has real likeability and a good voice; I especially was impressed by his part in the song "Living Doll". He sang the lower range in this harmony and while not quite being low enough for a bass, he has a really strong baritone register, which he also put to good use in the song "Time Drags By". His vocal skills are also put to good use in the harmonies with Caitlin, especially in the ballad version of "The Young Ones". This young man has a lot going for him on stage. 

      Toby Ashurst (Edwin), David Sturla (Steve) and Arlen Panesar (Cyril) are great fun to watch as the four mechanics. They all get scenes to shine individually like Toby's table top performance of "Move It", which opened Act Two, David's comedy lingua franca and his initial introductions with Do Re Mi, and Arlen's explanation to the border guards. These are just a few highlights for this trio! One thing I also noted with Don, Steve, Cyril and Edwin is their dancing ability and also that this quartet looked as if they were having the best time on stage; they brought the sunshine to this Summer Holiday.

Katie Sturla (Mimsie), Amy Tarrant (Alma),Evie Hancock (Angie) and Caitlin Fitzpatrick (Barbara) are the four lead females. Their sense of fun is obvious to see, matching the lads for the energy that they put in to their singing and choreography.

Heather Fitzpatrick (Jerry) and Lexie Collins (Stella) are a wonderful comedy double act, and I love the over the top, dramatic scenes Stella brought to the show, with Jerry acting as a subtle comedy foil. A lovely, and clever piece of casting with this pair.

What I love about Act One is that they use so many young performers in their shows, which means you get to see a whole plethora of talent all in one place, so let's shine a light on the supporting cast....

Leo Gilbert (Wilf the Cafe Owner/Alpine Cafe Owner/Bridegroom), Abigail Corns (Sandra - the Waitress), Pollyanna Field (Marjorie - the Mechanic/ Announcers), Isabel Limb (Mary - the Mechanic), Orlagh Corbett (French Jogger), Elizabeth Cutts (French Cyclist), Freddie Walshe (Strange Looking Girl), Etta Brompton (Jean D'Arm), Halo-Grace Smith (WPC), Emelia Corns (Italian Guard), Emma Offiler-Russell (Commander), Nellie McLennan (Bride/Wrightmore British Officer), Emma Salter, Layla Adelakun, May Brompton and Orlagh Corbett (Bridesmaids) and Grace Smith (Wedding Singer).

The Backing Vocalists are Abigail Corns, Bella Jordan, Freya Walshe, Layla Adelakun, Nellie McLennan and Pollyanna Field.

The ensemble of Cafe Customers, Mechanics, Nightclubbers, Passers-By, Alpine Cafe Customers, Wedding Guests, Reporters and Beach Guests consist of Abigail Corns, Bella Jordan, Elizabeth Cutts,  Emma Offiler-Russell, Emma Salter, Etta Brompton, Freddie Walshe, Freya Walshe, Grace Clarke, Grace Smith, Halo-Grace Smith, Isabel Limb,  Layla Adelakun, Leo Gilbert, May Brompton, Nellie McLennan, Orlagh Corbett, Pollyanna Field and Scarlett Moncur.

Directed by Danni Starkey and Amy North. Their choices of actor for each role is 100% on the money. Danni and Amy obviously know the actors' strengths and have cast them perfectly. The pace is kept up brilliantly and the slower moments become all the more special in contrast with the high energy in the other areas.

Choreographed by Wendy Spencer, Helen Starkey, Shelly White and Danni Starkey. This is one musical where the dancing speaks volumes because of the instantly recognisable dance style of the decade, and all of those routines are on show on stage, and brilliantly recreated by this colossal cast. You can see the work that has been put into the choreography not only in the actors' bodies, but in their faces, they all look as if they are loving these routines, as well as the songs. And when you think that this big cast probably have not heard most of these songs, or danced in this way, they all looked as if they were born to boogie like this.

The costumes for the show are thanks to Wendy Spencer, Shelly White and Lorna North, and all look suitably sixties.

Musical Director is Adrian Dobson who with his band Mick Curtis (Sax, Clarinet & Flute), Matthew Lax (Trumpet), Dave Whittle (Keyboard 1), Pete Fines (Keyboard 2 & Acoustic Guitar), Richard James and Dotty Tripper (Electric Guitar), Tom Hetzel (Bass) and Andy Shelton (Percussion) recreated that wonderful sixties sound of The Shadows and a melodious Mariachi sound thanks to Matthew Lax's trumpet.

Sound is by James White, and while there were just a few crackly mic pacs, this didn't surprise me due to the energy that the actors put into the routines. On a personal level, I would have liked the volume for the main actors increased a little when singing over the band as they sounded just a little low in the mix. This was opening night though so without the auditorium being as full as it was, getting that essential mix between on stage actor and live band is never easy to get spot on until after that first show.

Lighting is by Ollie Whitehead. As good as it gets, and as good as any theatre. It was bright, colorful and created excitement with the music.

Stage Manager is Kevin Spencer and along with the Stage Crew, consisting of Pete Yeomans, Paul Savage, Mike Armes, Alan Jamieson, Amber Savage, Ruby Armes, Steve Hancock, Frank Armes, Natalie Savage and Amy North, they made sure that the transitions on stage were always smooth.

Props are provided by Danni Starkey and Helen Starkey, and there are many of them in this musical.

There is another star of this musical that I have not yet mentioned and that is the bus itself. I was truly gobsmacked when I saw this roll on to stage. In the past productions of this musical the bus itself is part cutaway, but here was a life-size bus on stage with upstairs and downstairs areas, both of which used by the cast. The inside of the bus was kitted out and the outside of this big red London bus was adorned with advertisements of the era, plus a clever advert for Act One's next musical production, "Sister Act". The buses registration number of AOC 2026 was also tied into Act One. Not sure whether this would be classed under a very large prop or part of the set design, whichever category it falls into, it certainly impressed me, as well as the ease that this big red monster was moved around the stage by the Stage Crew.

"Summer Holiday" will make you want to grab your buckets and spades and flip flops and head for the seaside, but before you do that, make sure that you catch this fantastically fun musical before it finishes on Saturday 16 May.

 "Gentleman Jack" by Northern Ballet.

A co-production with Finnish National Opera and Ballet.

Nottingham Theatre Royal.

"Gentleman Jack" is Northern Ballet’s new full-length ballet and is the story of the 19th century icon, Anne Lister. 

Yorkshirewoman Anne, described by some as the "first modern lesbian", lived, dressed and loved as she desired, not as 19th century society expected her to. Her diaries were discovered and decoded after her death, revealing a bold, passionate, independent, well-travelled businesswoman who defied societal norms and loved as fiercely as she lived.

Her story has inspired biographies, novels and a hit TV series, and this – Northern Ballet's first large-scale commission since 2021 and the first under Artistic Director Federico Bonelli - is the only production to bring it to life through the powerful medium of dance. 

I've always said that ballet is the most relaxing dance form to watch, no matter how dramatic the storyline, and that is all down to the choreography and the dancers who keep you spellbound and completely hypnotised, all the while story telling to the highest degree.

I've seen a few ballets over the years now, but this has to be one of the most erotic, sexy pieces of dance I've ever seen, and al the while portraying such tenderness and emotion.

I'm not going to say how every dancer is of the highest quality because that goes without saying. Companies like Northern Ballet and Matthew Bourne's New Directions only employ the best dancers, so straight away you know that you'll be seeing the best of the best when it comes to dance, performance and story telling. And that goes for the ensemble as well as the featured dancers.

Nida Aydınoğlu is Anne Lister, ballet's new heroine. Lister's well documented journals come to life on stage with the writings being shown within the four cabinets of light and video.

Julie Nunès is Ann Walker, Lister's long term partner who eventually becomes her wife.

Sarah Chun plays the role of Marianna Lawton, the friend and lover of Lister, who goes on to break her heart when Marianna marries Charles Lawton, played by Jonathan Hanks.

Miguel Teixeira plays Christopher Rawson and his wife is played by Alessandra Bramante.

Aunt (Anne Lister) is played by Saeka Shirai and Uncle (James Lister) is played by Harry Skoupas. Heather Lehan is Sister (Marion Lister).

The Businessmen, Upper Class Men, Words, Miners and Servants are played by Jackson Dwyer, Bruno Serraclara, Andrew Tomlinson, Yu Wakizuka, Noah Benzie-Drayton, Harris Beattie, Stefano Veralta, Archie Sherman, Jun Ishii and Albert González Orts.

The Parisienne Women, Upper Class Women, Words, Miners and Servants are played by Helen Bogatch, Sena Kitano, Kirica Takahashi, Kaho Masumoto, Eliza Hickey, Harriet Marden, Gemma Coutts, Rachael Gillespie, Alessia Petrosino and Alessandra Bramante.

These are the dancers for Wednesday 13^th May; there are different casts for each day of the Nottingham run.

Choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa with Dance Artist and singer/songwriter Jemima Brown acting as Choreography Consultant.

Composer is Peter Salem. Conducted by Daniel Parkinson, the music is absolutely gorgeous, and several times I found my eyes closing to focus on the music, letting the lush sounds of this beautiful sounding orchestra wash over me, and then realising that I was missing the equally hypnotising dancing on stage. I really hope that Peter Salem's music that goes with the ballet becomes available in some form or another.

Dramaturg is thanks to Clare Croft.

Lighting and Set Designer is Christopher Ash. He has used a form of set design that I don't think that I have seen before where the cinematic video is contained in four cabinets that are wheeled on and off stage and perfectly shows motion, time and travel. There's also like a small travelator that Jack uses to indicate the road he is travelling, and that combined with the moving scenic cabinets really create a wonderful effect.

The scenes within the boardroom with Jack and Rawson and effectively played out for power in an almost competitive battle for superiority

Creative Consultant is Sally Wainwright.

Costume Designer is Louise Flanagan, who has drawn on inspiration from the 1830s as well as lesbian and queer dress in modern fashion to create a contemporary feel to the period dress. As soon as the curtain goes up, you're met with the most wonderfully glamorous sight, and those costumes continue to give the wow factor from start to finish.

Get your tickets to see this intoxicating new ballet while you can!

"Gentleman Jack" is at the Nottingham Theatre Royal until Saturday 16 May.

 "The Game's Afoot - Holmes For The Holidays" by Ken Ludwig.

West Bridgford Dramatic Society.

The Studio Theatre, West Bridgford.

There's nothing like a good thriller/murder/mystery, and I've not seen this particular play previously, so had no idea of the story, who is murdered and whodunnit.

It's Christmas Eve 1936, and Broadway star William Gillette, admired the world over for his leading role in the play "Sherlock Holmes", has invited his fellow cast members to his Connecticut home for a weekend of revelry. But when one of the guests is stabbed to death, the festivities in this house of tricks and mirrors quickly turn dangerous. It is then up to Gillette himself, as he assumes the persona of his beloved Holmes, to track down the killer before the next victim appears. 

Before all this though, we witness the end of Gillette's latest play where, at the final bows, a shot rings out and Gillette is wounded!

William Gillette, who was an actual actor, playwright and stage manager back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries - who knows if Ludwig based this character on the actual man or if it's just a coincidence! Bertie Black takes on this role of the charming and dramatic Broadway actor renowned for playing Sherlock Holmes. Bertie is the perfect choice for this leading man. With his expressive face and comedy talents, plus his ability to ham the role up just right, this is just the part for Bertie. There's an array of theatrical quotes, including several from Shakespeare from Gillette, and lots of thrilling thespianism, showing that Gillette is the best detective a man can get when it comes to comedy.

Martha Gillette, William's dotty, eccentric, and quick-witted mother is played by Amanda Harris. Fiercely protective of her superstar son, and woe betide anyone who decides to deride William, on any level! She does not take kindly to the theatre critic who William has also invited to the evening's revelries. 

Felix Geisel is Gillette's best friend and the second banana, and played by Dave Cochrane. Felix is full of flounce and drama, whether in character of Moriati in the play within this play, or as Felix the play's actor. There's also plenty of flounce and drama within his marriage to Madge! There are some lovely timed moments with Madge and Felix where Dave is on the receiving hand of Alison; the slaps to his face resounded around the auditorium, and I did not see him wince or telegraph the slap on either occasion. 

Madge Geisel is Felix's wife, a witty and outspoken actress, played by Alison Scotney. Alison looks superb in this period comedy drama with the costumes she has to wear, and I loved that she did not seem to pull the slaps she dishes out to Dave. So many times I have seen slaps or punches pulled too soon and that impact, or visualised impact, is lost proving that Alison is very good at stage combat.

Simon Bright is an earnest, less experienced actor and is the love interest for Aggie. Simon is played by Joshua Plank and I love the gawkiness and gangliness of this character, which works well in this brilliant piece of casting because Joshua is slim and TALL! Simon though has an ex girlfriend who seems to know exactly where he is at all times and keeps calling him, but Aggie trusts him implicitly, even though she can't understand why the ex always seems to know where he is and is able to call him! A wonderful piece of character acting from Joshua.

Aggie Wheeler, a young actress who has recently inherited a fortune and is played by Emily Martin. Aggie has not had the best breaks, offstage most recently, but she is over that bad patch and has found love with Simon, and they are completely loved up. 

Inspector Harriet Goring is a witty, offbeat English police inspector who arrives in the second act to solve the murders. Played by Sam Bassi, who I think I overheard being mentioned as this role being her debut for West Bridgford Dramatic Society, and I also think I heard someone say that this was her first time on stage. If this is the case then Sam is a wonderful, confident actor. Sam delivers the ham as naturally as the rest of the cast, including peppering the role with dramatic quotes from some of the best playwrights. A cleverly comical role for an actor who looks at ease on stage, surrounded by a cast who are used to delivering fantastic characters and performances, showing that Sam fits into this category seamlessly.

Daria Chase is an obnoxiously sharp theatre critic who is despised by the actors, played by Kristina Russell. Oh, how I love this character, but then I would, wouldn't I? Chase says all the things about the people that she reviews that sometimes, but not in this case, I would love to say - but only on extremely rare occasions. Her put downs are brilliantly cutting, even when she is not reviewing, immediately making enemies of all the characters within William's circle of loveys, but why did William invite her to the Christmas Eve festivities when he knows that they all have a bone to pick with her?

The radio announcer is portrayed by Conway Fitzgerald.

Directed by Craig Russell, who also designed the brilliant set. He has made sure that all of the characters go outrageously over the top, where the meat of choice is most definitely ham. The set is a wonderful design and construction, giving the image that Gillette's new residence is as full of tricks and gadgets as a James Bond film.

Production Manager and Stage Manager is Rob Dixon. All of the scene amendments are done in the faded light, covered by some wonderful musical pieces from the period that the play has been set. Slick and smooth management of the stage and the transitions also the work of Assistant Stage Manager Jerome Foley.

Set Dressing is by Craig & Kristina Russell. This set has so much to offer visually, especially as Gillette loves his gadgets, as well as his arsenal of weaponry, all exhibited on the walls of the set, and the hidden section is also extremely well decked out with appropriate set dressings. Props are sourced by Kristina Russell.

Costumes are thanks to Kristina Russell, Jo Sharpe and Adrian Bacon. Stylish and classy all the way through.

Lighting Design is by Sav Dixon, and there are some lovely lighting effects in this play. There are thunderstorms and flickering lights to create atmosphere, and especially in one particular scene, which I will not provide a spoiler for, but it is to do with the real reason why Darla Chase is the guest of honour! Lighting Operator is Malcolm Todd.

Sound Design is by Jeff Tullin and Sound Operator Jem Woolley. There was only one sound effect that appeared just a tad too early, which I know will be remedied in the second performance on Wednesday. Maybe I was the only one who noticed, who knows? But I know that Jem would have also realised that another second would have smashed it and created the perfect effect.

I loved everything about this silly play. From the silliness of the script to the  excellent acting of every one of the cast. There were bits in there as well that maybe were added by the cast themselves going slightly off script. Why do I say this? Because even the actors found humour in these small sections, including an empty glass and a few (nearly) secret smiles from a couple of cast members, which brought another level of human to both the characters and the actors. It also just goes to show that every performance is slightly different to the next one, and I love that in live theatre.

What more can a reviewer ask for when a play that he has not seen makes him laugh, is directed marvellously and is acted brilliantly? Maybe to make it out of the theatre all in one piece! No spoilers please Kev!

"The Game's Afoot" is at The Studio Theatre in West Bridgford until Saturday 16 May.

 "The Shawshank Redemption"

Encore Performing Arts.

Duchess Theatre.

Based on the novella "Rita Hayworth and The Shawshank Redemption" by Stephen King. Adapted for the stage by Owen O'Neill and Dave Johns.

Andy Dufresne is sentenced to two consecutive life sentences for the murders of his wife and her lover and is sentenced to a tough prison, Shawshank. However, only Andy knows he didn't commit the crimes. While there, he forms a friendship with Red, experiences brutality of prison life, adapts to the system, helps Warden Stammas, and discovers who really did murder his wife and her lover, all in 19 years.

This production is different in parts to the two touring productions of the show that I have seen, but different does not mean any less powerful in the hands of a Director like Adam Guest. 

Jason Kramer is Andy Dufresne, the young, good looking professional who is bound to be the target of the prison deviants, called "The Sisters" who see the newbies as "fresh meat". While the brutal attack of Dufresne is part of the script, you'll be pleased to know that this isn't visual, but never the less, still created an air of sickening unease. I thought that Jason was a new name to me but could this be the same Jason Kramer who played "The Beast" for Kaleidoscope Players? The roles played by this cast are roles that can not be drawn on from experience (as far as I know) and seeing Jason and the rest of the cast portraying these characters with such feeling and realism really makes you realise of the talent they have, submerging you in a world that we also shouldn't know anything about.

Warden Stammas is as corrupt as some of the inmates who will do anything within his power, and occasionally outside it, to get what he wants, not stopping at silencing the inmate who goes against what he says by wanting to help Dufresne. Played by Kheenan Jones he successfully depicts the power and control he has over the inmates, as well as the staff. Kheenan shows the dangerous calm that Stammas has to get whatever he wants, the unflappable attitude and hold over everyone though only goes so far, as he discovers near the end of this play. Kheenan is so good at portraying darker characters on stage, like Frankenstein's Monster in "Frankenstein" or Judd in "Oklahoma", which shows what a wonderful, but dark, character actor he is.

Red, played by Phil Stanley,  is one of those lovely, warm characters who will do anything he can to help anyone he can, bending the Shawshank laws to do so. His character's reaction to the parole news was a picture and made you want to punch the air because he is such a nice guy; Red and Phil. Red also acts as the narrator. I have seen Phil in many stage roles, but I can't remember the last time that I saw him not in a musical, which is why this role shows a whole new image of Phil Stanley the actor. 

I also loved the role of Brooksie, the aged librarian, played by Steve Dunning. Brookes found it difficult to come to terms with life outside of prison and atoning for his crime. There's a part which will have you with a heavy heart near the end. I think one of the reasons why Encore has managed to attract so many excellent actors is the fact that roles in this play come around very rarely and the actors all want a chance to play characters and roles that are very different to those played before. Steve I last saw playing Grandpa Joe in "Willy Wonka", a million miles away from the lovable librarian here. There's one scene where Brooksie gets parole and is saying goodbye to everyone in the library that has become his life while behind bars, dressed in a suit. That speech about his feelings drives home the fear he has of leaving a place which has been his life for so many years and going back into a world where he can't even get a library card to borrow books from. A riveting and sad piece of theatre delivered with fear and sadness.

Another character you really root for is Tommy Williams, played by Harvey Tavener. Tommy wants to pass his exams and, with Andy's help, succeeds. Stammas lies to Andy about this before getting rid of him, and again lying to Andy by telling him that Tommy "should have been on suicide" watch due to him failing his exams again. Stammas did not have to spell anything out for Andy after that, but Andy knows exactly what was implied, and also realises what really happens. Harvey is ideal for this role as when Tommy is first seen at the end of act one, being taunted by the other inmates as the latest delivery of "fresh fish", you know the dangers and threat that Tommy  will be in line for. Tommy has information that could help Andy, but as soon as Stammas discovers this, Tommy is offered an alternative outcome, just weeks before his parole date......

Dan Bates plays Dawkins, a violent inmate with a short fuse, often involved in the gritty, tense, or dramatic moments of the play's prison life. As with many of this cast, I've seen them play various roles, but this is a role very different to his musical, straight and comedy roles. Dan's face takes on a very different appearance without his facial hair, and for the role of Dawkins, perfectly suits that hardman, slightly sinister look.

Rico, frequently seen as a comedic character who brings splashes of light relief to the dark, brutal environment of the prison, is played by Ollie Turner. Without Rico's comedic twisting in the library, or his removal of certain pages from a certain D.H. Lawrence book, along with several other scenes that include Ollie to lighten the story, this dark play would be so much darker. Nice to see Ollie back on stage and in such an important role.

Luke Grainger plays Bogs Diamond, one of "The Sisters". This role is the darkest role I have seen Luke play. Bogs is the leader of "The Sisters" and is a violent and sadistic character, with a voice as deep and menacing as the character is. This must have really stretched Luke's acting when I think of the roles I've seen him play over the years. That, I imagine, will also be the reason why Luke auditioned for the part; to play someone so distanced from his acting comfort zone. This play shows that he is just as good at playing dark characters as convincingly as the lighter character roles we have seen him play. Luke's facial recognition of Bogs' depraved and sadistic power is hauntingly menacing, and I'm not used to seeing Luke smiling so little in a role. Can't wait for when "Silence Of the Lambs" to be up for licence for amateur groups because, if I was a Director, I'd be looking for someone like Luke for Hannibal Lector.... but there may be another cast member who he'd have to fight off......

Jack Readyhoof is Rooster, a dangerous, conflicted inmate serving two life sentences for a violent crime. Jack is one of those rare actors who has the ability to change his whole image and persona just by a change in how his face looks. He is so good at looking evil, quite devilish as Rooster. There's something about Jack's eyes that can all of a sudden change to pure evil, and a smile that scare the bejeezus out of you. Watching Jack on stage is like looking into the eyes of a Rottweiller who may look like they are laughing at you, but you know that you're in the company of a dangerous and psychotic animal who will do you great harm. Fortunately I know Jack well enough to say that he is one of the nicest, and quite quietest of men away from a stage, which makes his onstage personas so distanced from his own. One of my favourite sinister actors ever!

Richard Dawson plays Pinky, another one of "The Sisters". Pinky is involved in the darker, more predatory aspects of inmate life, contributing to the, tense, and dangerous atmosphere of the prison. As with Luke, this role is so far removed to the normal roles they usually play, and it is great to see both of them taking on roles so far from their comfort zones. I think what also makes this role seem so different for Richard is the fact that he has shaved off his facial hair, and without his trademark glasses, Richard looks a completely different person.

It's been a while since I've seen Martin Holtom on stage, which is testament to the quality of this piece of theatre and Encore Performing Arts, as it has seduced several local actors like Martin back to the stage. Martin plays Entwistle one of the guards in the penitentiary, who does as he is told by Hadley. There are a couple of times with Entwistle that, if you look at him, you can almost see a flinch, almost as if he was as afraid of Hadley as some of the inmates are. While having to follow the rules of Shawshank, Entwistle does have a more compassionate side, as shown in Martin's portrayal.

Giacomo Ciccognani, a new name to me, plays Chief Hadley, a cruel, wicked, corrupt, and sadistic prison guard who frequently abuses his authority, and not just with the inmates. Where has Giacomo been over the years? He shows great confidence, especially in this role, so I automatically assume that this is not his first stage role. Again, it's the lure of a brilliant play, meaty role, and a theatre group as renowned as Encore, that has attracted an actor like Giacomo to the Long Eaton stage. There are a few characters in Shawshank who you will detest, and I have always said that a good actor will make you feel some emotion towards the character they are playing, whether that be good or bad, and at the bows at the end, you could tell that the audience were undecided as to cheer or boo Hadley, Stammas and The Sisters. Hopefully we'll see another acting side of Giacomo sometime in the future.

Directed by Adam Guest, with the Director's Assistant being Emma Kelvey. Adam is one of those people who turns everything that he touches to gold, especially with these darker plays. Not only does he manage to draw out amazing performances from all of his actors, but his name is so well known and admired throughout local theatre, that actors want to work with him and Encore. Having known Adam for over a decade, I know that his work ethic is monumental, which is why he gets the results that he gets every time. I also love that he takes so much time over things like incidental music, getting just the right tone for every production he comes into contact with. Never one for looking at the "easy" option in theatre, just to get bums on seats, Encore have a knack of choosing different, often harrowing pieces of theatre to the stage. They take risks by offering alternative drama, another reason why this group is like a magnet to talented actors who like to stretch themselves on stage.

Lucy Young  is Production Manager and Production Assistant is Daisy Donoghue.

Set Designers are Jason Kramer, Emma Kelvey and Katie Bird. The main set consists of a row of metal cell doors, but these are cleverly converted into  being able to see inside the cells, solitary confinement and the new library that is set up by Stammas and Dufresne.

Standard prison costumes are all there with the smart officer style costumes for the staff and Stammas wears a smart, expensive looking suit, the three levels of status clearly depicted in the costumes, sourced by Amanda Warriner.

Stage Manger for this play is Lucy Young and Katie Bird. While the cast do quite a bit of the scenery changes, Lucy and Katie are almost invisible to the audience, which is the sign of a great stage management team. Everything runs as smooth as silk with this pair on management duties.

Many props included on stage and all sourced by Katie Bird.

Lighting plays a very important part of this play, creating atmosphere, sometimes as dark as the action is on stage, as are the sound effects involved in bring the sounds of prison life to life. The Technical Team responsible for this area consist of David Price and Jack Clark, who is fast becoming one of the busiest techies in the area, as well as a competent Stage manager, as proven last Sunday evening at Derby Theatre. The combined talents of David and Jack with sound and light enhances the uncomfortable aura in this show.

I must also mention the programme, which is full of fun bits about the cast, with various entertaining articles, and I love the music choices by each actor to keep them sane in solitary confinement. Designed by Matt Powell and the articles included by Adam Guest. A bargain as well as a great reminder of a powerful piece of theatre.

Every production that Encore put on, they collect for a charity which has a connection to the play. For this show the charity chosen to collect for is Switchback which is a charity that supports young male prison leavers one on one to make definitive changes in their lives to stop them reoffending.

If you like theatre that will put you on edge, make you feel uneasy, has shock value, leaving you occupying only half of your seat, then this is the play to see this week. Plus where else are you going to see an all-male cast locally?

"The Shawshank Redemption" is at the Duchess Theatre until Saturday 9 May.

Photography by Megan Hill

Please note the show contains the following themes which some audience members may find distressing:

- Prison life and behaviour.

- Sexual violence.

- Strong language.

- Suicide and murder.