Breaking the Code

The Marco Players

HUGH Whitmore’s 1986 play based on the life of Alan Turing is presented in true style as Marco Players present their latest addition to a long list of successful productions. Exploring Turing’s cryptographic activities and dealing with his homosexuality, the subject matter is both thought provoking and hard hitting.

Christian Brabin is Alan Turing to a tee.

This was a perfect performance that that encompassed every emotion, nuance and intricacy of Turing's life. Brabin eats this part alive and presents a stunning interpretation of this complex character. With a controlled stammer, well timed pauses and non-verbal communicative touches that told more than the many words that this character had to say, this obvious well researched performance was a pleasure to watch and left many of the audience with a tear in their eye.

Brabin was supported by a cast of experienced actors who, in their own right added to the success of this production. Jacqui Brian presents an elegant performance as Turing’s Mother, Sara, with the ability to be supportive, encouraging and in some ways disappointed at her sons chosen life-styles. However, her love was immovable. Fran Shinks as work colleague and potential partner Pat Green displays a sensitive and sincere character and delivers with a well-balanced tone which was just right.

Martin Pearce gives detective Mick Ross a controlled pace and he nonchalantly plays things by the book, resulting in the most devastating consequences for Turing. Matthew Gavin doubles with a couple of cameo performances as Christopher Morcom and Nikos. Both characters come though and add to the strength of the piece.

As Ron Miller, Turing’s lover, Dean Dixon-Foster is suitably sleazy and displays the right amount of contempt for the man who he uses and steals from. Another confident performance from an actor who has so much promise for the future.

Simon Hall as John Smith is on form as security service officer. Adding an authoritative air, Peter Scofield takes on the role of Turing's boss with ease as he confidently leads us through the time of Turing's life where he sets to work in the enigma code. A respectful performance that dovetailed nicely with the other characterisations to complete a talented cast.

Director Natalie Crompton has excelled herself with this one and she should be rightly proud. Skilful direction was more than apparent along with a trained eye for costume and setting. This is certainly one not to be missed.

Paul Cohen

BATS

The last performance of the place will take place on Saturday, March 3 at Stepping Stones, Chorley Old Road Community Hall at 7.30pm. Visit http://www.themarcoplayers.net/ for ticket information