TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD: Sergel/ Harper Lee: Mold

Mold

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD: Adaptation, Christopher Sergel, from Harper Lee's novel
Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold: Tkts 01352 755114
Review: EK Hudson, 29 October 2001

Shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit ‘em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.
The setting is Maycomb, Alabama in the depression of the 1930s. A black man, Tom Robinson is accused of rape by a young white girl. Atticus Finch, a white lawyer who simply wants to give the man a fair trial. Knowing it will be a struggle to convince the prejudiced townspeople and also that he may even put his family at risk, he continues to fight for justice.

The story is told through the eyes of Scout (Catrin Rhys) Finch’s 8 year old daughter who brings a wonderful energy to this production and keeps the piece alive with warmth, humour and honesty.

From the start, director Tim Baker's production captures the atmosphere of the deep south impeccably. The opening sequence is made quite magical with the clever and subtle use of lighting and haunting song. The cast, silhouetted against a sunset backdrop is simply a beautiful image; the a cappella melodies refrained throughout add a significant touch of unreality and a dream-like quality to an otherwise straightforward and earthy production.

There is a strong sense of ensemble playing: it works brilliantly to bring to life that sense of small town community so vital to the telling of the story. On occasion, though, some individual performances are disappointing.

No one can deny the power of Harper Lee’s tale, which, transposed to the stage, remains as compelling and as moving as the novel. It is important to be reminded of the power of this modern classic and of its relevance.

A very moving and thoughtful piece of theatre.

Directed: Tim Baker
Designed: Mark Bailey

Cast
Bob Ewell: Simon Armstrong
Mr Gilmer:John Biggins
Rev. Sykes: Jon Clairmonte
Mayella Ewell: Lucy Donovan
Tom Robinson: Enoch Frost
Sheriff : Maldwyn John
Atticus: Gwyn Vaughan Jones
Helen Robinson: Tamara McKoy-Patterson
Calpurnia: Denise Orita
Scout: Catrin Rhys
Jem: Simon Watts

2001-11-01 10:01:13