Lear’s Daughters

Bolton Little Theatre

Until Saturday

BOLTON Little Theatre's latest production is billed as a prequel to the Shakespearian classic, King Lear.

Lear’s Daughters, written by the Women’s Theatre Group and Elaine Feinstein, opened to a capacity audience in the intimacy of the Forge — a fine setting for this thought provoking piece.

Strip it bare of its link to Shakespeare and the formal setting of a castle and you could very well be watching a modern day documentary of a dysfunctional family dealing with money issues, teenage pregnancy, abortion and sibling rivalry.

We are led through the story by the Fool, played with subtle comedy touches by Meredith Collinson.

This was an energetic performance that was consistent throughout and was complemented by narration via Frances Clemmitt's effortless portrayal of Nanny, who had cared for each of the daughters from birth.

The opening scene gives a glimpse of the real King Lear as the Monarch divided his land between his three daughters. It was at this point where we had an insight of their true characters.

As King Lear, Michael Tatman gives a regal performance and looks the part in his regalia, complete with home-grown beard.

The daughters display individual characters which develop throughout the piece.

The elder daughter, Goneril, believes she should ascend to the throne and is adamant that this will happen no matter what. Olivia Alexander gives this role the right amount of petulance and she strives to get her own way.

As Regan, the middle child, Ruth Syddall is convincing as the rebel who will do it her own way. The audience felt her discontentment throughout which culminated in a potion being taken to rid herself of her unborn foetus. The presentation of this scene showed the calibre of this fine actress.

Completing the trio is Cordelia, the youngest child. Showing the ability to almost sulk on demand, Rachael Bannister breezed through her performance with consummate ease.

All three complemented each other and interacted effectively to bring the piece alive.

With clear and concise direction from debut director June Grice, together with quality performances from the cast, BLT has presented another polished production.

Paul Cohen