Beauty and the Beast

Published Monday 17 December 2007 at 12:30 by Jon Holliday

The Sherman has established a fine reputation for presenting Christmas plays of imagination as an alternative to pantomime. The choice of Charles Way’s version of the classic fairytale by the newly set up Sherman Cymru continues that admirable tradition.

Set in Wales in Jane Austen times, this evocative staging by David Bond can be enjoyed by the young as a simple romantic heart-warmer. However, the darker side of moral dilemmas and sexual relationships are never far from the surface. Dream-like, even nightmarish, in a gothic atmospheric setting by Rachael Canning, the action moves swiftly with dramatic confrontations and exciting fights contrasted with moments of tenderness leading to the memorable climax.

Robert Vernon powerfully portrays the Beast, while Bethan Walker’s spirited Beauty is so feminine yet with steely resolve. Catherine Ayers as her spoilt sister Cassandra combines effectively with Richard Shackley as the boastful Knightly and the gormless, very Welsh Owen.

Support is provided by Lynda Rooke as the mysterious housekeeper and Dafydd Emyr as the girls’ father, with Deborah Light and Russel Boodie as the ever-present menacing wolves.

The music and stormy sound design by John Hardy Music, choreography by Frances Newman, and fights arranged by Kevin McCurdy contribute immeasurably to the show’s impact.