An unusual play where all the characters are
children, played by adults. 'Blue
Remembered Hills' by Dennis Potter was originally a television play, broadcast nearly forty
years ago and set in England during the Second World War. There is in some ways
a timeless quality about the way the children interact but the absence of
electronic distractions meant this was a time when children to a large extent
had to make their own entertainments. This is further emphasised by the setting
of a rural location.
Against the idyllic rural backdrop, as
children while away a summer with frolicking and chit chat, there are some dark
undercurrents. Aside from usual childish squabbles and bullying, there is a war
going on and the absence of their fathers is clearly a big factor in these
young people’s lives. Mothers don’t seem to be discussed much and there is a sense
of children growing up with little adult influence. The play is very much an
observation of suppressed fears and anxieties, sometimes coming to the fore,
but this is mixed with sprinklings of playful innocence. There is no attempt to
place the action against any particular episode of the war; all that matters to
the children is that their fathers are away, in one case ‘missing’.
A strong cast brings over vivid
characterisations; the rough and tumble played of John played by Scott Berry, the energy and bravado of Peter, played by Ross McCormack the boyishly playful
Will played by Steve Hester and the
more passive Raymond played by Steve
Cain. Then there is the feisty Audrey played by Helena Coates and the more thoughtful Angela played by Roni Ellis. Finally, special mention
must be made of Donald Duck, the outsider who is put down by almost everyone,
sensitively played by Christopher
Wollaton.
Director Jess Cummings uses the whole
auditorium to good effect for the action, creating the impression of no
boundaries. The actual set is very impressive, with piled bales of hay, rustic
fencing and high foliage surrounding a straw-strewn stage. This is enhanced by
skilful lighting, alternating between full stage illumination and small areas
being picked out in black out, emphasising both space and different locations.
South Western twangs complete the feeling of country life and the period
costumes are well observed. There also some excellent special effects, without
giving any spoilers.
'Blue
Remembered Hills' is an interesting and thought-provoking play which has
been given a superb rendition by Salford Theatre Company.
Reviewer - John Waterhouse
on - 20/9/18
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