A review by Ashby resident Asha, who took her two children to Ashby Venture Theatre's production of The Woman in White.

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"Can we munch on snacks like at the cinema?" asked my 12-year-old when I told him we were going to watch The Woman in White production at the Venture theatre in Ashby.

"I am not sure it is a good idea, there will be a break though," I said realising the only theatre he was familiar with was the Christmas pantomime.

My kids were getting too old for pantos and I had been waiting for a production like this to show them the magic of theatre. The Woman in White seemed perfect, a well-known Victorian classic with suspense (crucial to engage a 12-year-old) and drama (a big tick for my teenage daughter).

As we watched the plot unfold, it did seem like an ambitious attempt adapting this "sensational novel in English literature" to the stage. The director had realised her vision well.

Considering it was the first show of the weekend and the fact that the play relied on strong voices, the actors did well with their monologues.

Devices such as the flashbacks on screen in real time and voiceovers to read letters had been used to great effect.

Count Foscou with his pronounced Italian accent, Sir Perceival with his distinct mannerism and Marion with her strong body language were spectacular in their roles. Gilmore, Laura, and Hartwright shone in their roles too.

The kids admitted later that Ann Cathwrick spooked them out, a testimony to her performance. Mrs Cathwrick, who came in towards the later half really made her presence felt on stage.

The general opinion on the way home was that it dragged a bit, however once the twists started coming thick and fast, we were hooked. The final scene stumped the kids—the gasps that accompanied their words said it all. It was unanimously agreed that it was a killer ending!

I wanted to show my tech-trained kids the charm of local live theatre. The Woman in White served the purpose well.

The Woman in White is being performed at Venture Theatre until 20th September.

Book your tickets to see The Woman in White at Ashby Venture Theatre here.

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Bio:

Creative soul, Storyteller, Mum.

Asha loves seeing her name in print and hates home-schooling. She writes short stories and flash and her works have been published in print and online. She lives in Ashby. When she is not reading or writing, she likes hanging out with her kids and then write about them.

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