Putney Light Operatic Society are bringing a famous English haunting back from the dead with their new musical
Cleverly spans many different styles and genres, including gothic romance, comedy and the good old-fashioned victorian ghost story. In short, there’s something for everyone.
Right from the opening, Alex Dee boldly owns the stage as Richard Parsons. His grotesque characterisation of this evil man proves enthralling throughout the performance. Whilst the chorus around him are certainly in fine voice, they come just short of delivering the frantic hustle and bustle of 18th century London. However, their presence on stage is particularly powerful during the communications with the poltergeist, which had me on the edge of my seat. Particular members of the chorus shine, including Rhoda Green in her brief yet hilarious role as Carrots, a VERY reluctant witness in the court. I also enjoyed Joe Beecroft’s role as the plucky jailer, committed his grim job.
Geraghty’s score delivers some fantastic tunes that keep the production pacing and lively. The first summoning of the ghost is a particularly interesting and humorous number. Not all the music is as memorable and some songs become a little repetitive. However, vocal performances across the cast are consistently strong, particularly from Rachel Kitchen as Elizabeth Parsons. Her solo in the courthouse conveys movingly the character's pain of being used as ‘bait’ to lure the poltergeist into communication with the living.
Sandys’ ‘less is more’ staging decision is effective and the story moves seamlessly between different corners of London. The black and white backdrop of the city furthers the timely sense of location. However, even less could have been even more as too many black boxes sometimes leave the stage feeling over-cluttered and unnecessary.
Overall, PLOS have certainly brought flair and originality to the Fringe. Their musical cleverly spans many different styles and genres, including gothic romance, comedy and the good old-fashioned victorian ghost story. In short, there’s something for everyone.
