Rondo Theatre Company present a compact retelling of Henry VI and bring all three parts together in a 90-minute show.
Photo © Blaze Gradziel
The intimate surroundings of the glorious Rondo Theatre is a perfect home for this piece.
Directed by Nic Proud, this is an ambitious and successful production which rattles through the story with energy and commitment.
An excellent soundtrack, choreography and some fine stage combat from Fight Director Maisie Carter ensures visual variation throughout.
Central performances are strong with some good humorous interpretations, overall the company works with cohesion and confidence.
Toby Skelton takes the title role alongside Lucy Upward (Margaret) Sam Fynn (Suffolk) and Ian Diddams (Warwick.) Steve Brookes plays Richard Plantagenet with James Vallance (Prince Edward) and Josh Phillips as Richard III. Josie Mae-Ross choreographs and plays Edward IV and Rebecca Waters is Gloucester.
The episodic nature of the short scenes often stalls the action; more choreographed transitions rather than blackouts would have balanced this.
Technically this is an excellent show with atmospheric lighting from Alex Latham, creating some fine pictures against the simple but effective staging. The final image of Richard III is an absolute treat.
The production is fundraising for The Royal Osteoporosis Society and once again shows the wealth of talent hidden away in the smaller venues.
The Rondo is a hugely valuable resource and once again reflects why community theatre is a vital life force for the city.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield
