The Woman in Black

The anticipation levels prior to seeing this play were two-fold. Not only is it the second-longest running play in the history of London’s West End (31 years) but it is also legendarily purported to scare the pants off ya! 

The setting is a Victorian era theatre - a nervous old man enlists the assistance of a passionate young actor to help him formally re-tell a ghastly experience, from which he feels doomed never to recover. Thus begins a deliciously-written ‘play within a play’.

Given the setting and the convoluted nature of the text, Director David Wicks (assisted by his partner Shea and popular local actor/director, Terry Collins) had a daunting task to recreate several different atmospheres within the limiting space of ‘The Donny’ - but with the aid of a very simple set, vivid soundscapes, haze, scrim projections and two very talented actors, they succeeded beyond expectations.

It’s a hackneyed phrase to say someone was born for a part, but it’s difficult to picture anyone else with as much experience, versatility and genuine stage presence to pull off the sheer pomposity of his role - but enough about seventeen year old Declan Dowling. Paul Russell takes on his chewy and deceptively complicated role(s) - adopting multiple accents and demeanours - with craftsman-like skill.

This is a very, very wordy piece; both actors have to work hard to maintain pace, energy and an uninterrupted flow. As for the fear factor. - it was with childlike glee that I grabbed my friend’s arm at various times - to lean into this theatrical experience, which served to break the tension. But then later, at home, I may have been a tad more spooked than usual by the fact that I was all alone. 

All in all, this timeless, engaging text was given the professional treatment it deserved. 

Rose Cooper

Photograph: David Wicks.