The Turn of the Screw, Studio Theatre, Salisbury (From Daily Echo)

The Turn of the Screw, Studio Theatre, Salisbury

11:00am Wednesday 30th November 2011 in Curtain Call By Ham Quentin

KEN Whitworth’s adaptation of Henry James’s chilling tale shows the predicament of a governess (Emily Prince) who believes malevolent ghosts (James Paterson and George Cotterill) are threatening her two young charges – Fraser Adams, definitely one to watch, and Bethany Edwards, who is charming and witty. Both are remarkably fluent and confident on stage.

Adams’ performance is extremely well judged, and he doesn’t disappoint when premature sophistication gives way to terror.

Prince convinces in the difficult lead and is well partnered by Tamsin Jacson as the maid who doubts but can’t help believing something.

Linda Haymon’s direction keeps up the tension and is sensitive to every nuance in the dialogue.

Her well-mounted production includes two stunning effects – the first due to excellent staging and Ron Seaman’s lighting design.

I can’t tell you how the second was done but it makes you jump.

Steve Porter’s music is particularly well used.