Amateur theatre 'at its best' from Marco Players

BASED on a true story, Arthur Miller’s 1947 play tells the story of a family in turmoil following the death of a son who is missing in action. The presumption is that he was the victim of a faulty aircraft made by his father’s firm, but as the story unfolds it is clear that isn’t entirely the case.

From start to finish this production was outstanding. The standard of acting from each cast member was top quality and with precise and considered direction from Jason Crompton. Each nuance of emotion, pathos and dramatisation was squeezed out within an inch of its life to ensure each word of Miller's script was brought to life.

Joel Cheetham as Chris Keller turned in a sterling performance as he grappled with convincing his parents that he is his own person. His performance was consistent throughout displaying a tour de force of emotions and strong acting ability. Richard Leigh was cast perfectly as father, Joe Keller, giving us a sort of happy go lucky style until he remembers the enormity of what he has done; it is at this point that we see the depth of character, especially with the scenes with Sharon Shaw as his wife Kate. Shaw was quite simply excellent as she bordered on being almost demented as she tries to convince herself and her family that her Son, Larry, is alive.

Adding fuel to the fire is the dead son’s wife to be, Ann, who has fallen for the surviving brother Chris. Ruth Syddall makes this part her own and characterises well. The moments between these four actors were very powerful, especially the final scenes. The arrival of George, Anne’s brother, is a cause for concern as it is feared he will reveal the truth. James Haslam is almost sinister as he throws his two-penneth in adding more tension as the plot unfolds.

Paul Costello and Joy Plowes both turn in noteworthy performances as neighbours Jim and Sue Bayliss, making it clear that they have their own views on how they feel about the whole situation while other neighbours Frank and Lydia, played by Adam Syddall and Alison Partington, almost bring a touch of normality as they seem to carry on oblivious to the tense atmosphere of the last three years.

Completing the cast is the cheeky kid next door played by Adam Crompton. Adam is a joy to watch on stage, not so much for the cute factor anymore but because this lad has stage presence and is developing into a good little actor — a great little cameo that he can add to his ever expanding portfolio.

Bolton’s amateur theatre at its best.

By Paul Cohen