Darlington Hippodrome – until 5th October 2024
Review by Stee Leahy
4****
‘An Inspector Calls’ at the Darlington Hippodrome was nothing short of dynamically dramatic.
With no prior knowledge to ‘An Inspector Calls’, I really had no idea what to expect. The show kicks off with a bang. Sirens play throughout the auditorium captivating the audience members straight away, hundreds of which include school children. I believe they must study this piece in their curriculum.
As the curtain lifts, I was instantly blown away by the set design within this production. It was stunning. Rain was falling, along with a delicate mist, perfectly capturing a miserable evening in 1912 London. A rather large dollhouse like set piece dominates a huge portion of the stage. Actors could be seen through the windows and it really was impressive. Like a dolls house, it later opened up to reveal a beautiful interior set.
We’re introduced to Jeffrey Harmer’s ‘Mr Birling’, a very powerful father figure who demands the audience from the very get go. His ability to command the entire stage was a skill I was happy I got to witness. Complimenting Harmer’s performance was Leona Allen, playing his daughter ‘Sheila Birling’. A complete contrast to her father, Sheila has a playful energy. Dressed in a beautiful white period costume, she stands out among the suits.
Tom Chapman plays Sheila’s fiancée ‘Gerald Croft’ respectively. He has some beautiful moments with Allen. Their relationship rollercoaster was a fun watch.
Up next, providing a little comedy relief is ‘Eric Birling’ played wonderfully by George Rowlands. Rowlands gets to play with his character in a way the other performers do not. Providing some of the shows most funny moments, as well as some of the shows most dramatic. He did it so well.
Jackie Morrison stole the show with her portrayal as the lady of the house ‘Mrs Birling’. Not appearing until the shows 2nd act, her addition was a welcome change. Her characterisation was perfection.
Playing the mysterious ‘Inspector Goole’ was the talented Tim Treloar. His interaction with each of the “suspects” was a lot of fun to witness. In particular his moments with Morrison were incredibly powerful. Bravo to both of them.
With no lines in the show, but arguably the most stage time, I would like to mention Alice Darling’s portrayal of ‘Edna’, a subtly sublime masterclass in the art of reacting. Chefs kiss.
Without an interval, I would say this production missed it. I would have liked an intermission, a little time to process act 1 and prepare myself for what was to come. I think this production would benefit from a break, for comfort if nothing else.
The special effects used around the middle of this production were incredibly impressive. Nothing short of something you would find in London’s West End.
If you studied ‘An Inspector Calls’, or if you enjoy a period murder mystery – i would highly recommend this chilling rendition of the story.