The Stage

Moonfleet

Published Wednesday 28 October 2009 at 13:30 by Kevin Berry

Here is an adaptation of J Mead Falkner’s tale of Dorset smugglers that was conceived not far from where his story was set.

A scene from Moonfleet at Lawrence Batley Theatre

The director Tamsin Fessey, who also plays the love interest, is from Dorset and Angel Exit Theatre is based in Dorset. Even the planks of weathered wood used for props and scenery doors were washed up on Dorset beaches. So the story comes with due respect and a measure of reverence, but not too much - there is fun in the telling.

It has a chilling atmosphere. An eerie, storm-tossed soundtrack has its equally effective restrained moments. The ensemble cast whispers magical, ghostly enticements when the hero, played by Simon Carroll-Jones, is in turmoil or just plain scared out of his trousers.

The actors make their opening appearance as grotesque sea creatures caught in a fishing net. They then become Falkner’s characters, weaving the story in an adventurous, physically fluid style. Carroll-Jones and Henry Douthwaite are caught in a shipwreck and the scene is thrillingly played, becoming almost a group dance. Elsewhere, some individual detail as actors exit, needs tighter discipline.

How the props are used will fascinate - a simple plank is held horizontally to become a table and then a shelf and both items have objects placed on them. Many planks are held vertically to become gravestones. Theatrical invention is everywhere - a deep well is suddenly created, a cliff top, a church interior and all with minimum props and minimum fuss.

Visually exciting throughout, this production never loses the quality of a life-changing adventure story.