Directed by Joseph Pitcher
Based on the novel by Rebecca Netley, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff & Duncan Abel
The Mill at Sonning – until 16 November 2024
Reviewed by Marcia Spiers
4****
The Whistling portrays the immense sense of loss that follows the death of a loved one. Set on a small isolated Scottish Island community, this debut play is very much different for The Mill, but it was great to see something fresh and some new actors who I had not seen perform at The Mill before.
The standout thing about this play is the set design and choreography created throughout the set by shadows and spirits. This really creates an intensity, darkness and misty allure that captured the essence of a remote Scottish Island with all its incestuous gossip, secrets and legend. The costumes are well designed and reflective of the setting. The whole evening very much a Scottish affair including the choice of menu.
Elspeth (Rebecca Forsyth) lands a job as a nanny on the Island desperate to escape the loss of someone close to her. Instead, she finds more darkness and sorrow in her new home. Her role to look after a child called Mary (well played by the young, talented Sophie Bidgood) who too has experienced the tragic loss of two members of her family.
Elspeth works hard to reach Mary who has retreated from the world. Mary’s prickly Aunt Violet (Stephanie Farrell) and the foreboding Greer (Raghad Chaar) do their utmost to hamper Elspeth’s work. Elspeth soon discovers that the last nanny Hettie (Nadia Kramer) left suddenly but feels her spirit amongst others within the house. Later Hettie’s body washes up on the beach which begs the question who murdered her and why?
To add to the mix the influence of the church is powerful as is common on remote islands. Robert, local pastor and Bridget his wife (Jonny McGarrity and Susie Riddell) on the face of it welcome and support Elspeth but hide dark secrets of their own. Jonny McGarrity also ably played the Island’s doctor and local shopkeeper with a distinct reputation.
Finally, Aisla (Heather Jackson) who the islanders suspect to be a witch, knows what is happening and takes it upon herself to put all spirits to rest. Her efforts to protect Elspeth and Mary are truly tested when Elspeth seeks Bridget’s help to leave the island.
All the actors gave solid credible performances, and there was some lovely singing creating a haunting and eerie atmosphere within the theatre. Whilst this dark play may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I enjoyed it, and it has made me want to read the novel to find out how much this production has captured the story.