HALFWAY through a six-week tour of southern England, this evocative and thought-provoking play performed by Forest Forge stopped off at the beautifully appropriate Old Station Tea Rooms at Holmsley.
This atmospheric venue – enhanced by period photos and railway memorabilia – is actually the original Holmsley Station, on the Brockenhurst to Ringwood line, which opened in 1847 and was closed by the Beeching butchery in 1964.
Setting the performance in the old station’s waiting room with the audience close to the action while enjoying afternoon tea, is a creative masterstroke.
Writer Dinos Aristidou’s play tells the stories of an abandoned baby and the two women intensely affected by that pivotal decision.
Three superb actors – Madeline Brolly, Leonie Spilsbury and Ed Sheridan – convey the disparate characters, provide strong vocals on the interesting songs, and play guitar, flute and violin.
Perhaps the storytelling is a little over-complicated and convoluted for a one-act 45-minute drama, maybe the final poignant revelation could have been reinforced by the model train endlessly circling the track . . . yet this unusual production is nevertheless original and engaging.
Leaves on a Line is touring the south until April 11.
Check Forest Forge Theatre Company for various venues including Winchester’s Chesil Theatre on April 1 and Salisbury Playhouse April 7.
BRENDAN McCUSKER
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