Recently, I took an intrepid group of LV drama students to see the touring production of the famous horror The Woman in Black at the Bristol Old Vic.
As a drama teacher of considerable vintage (!) I have obviously seen the play many times – it is, as you might say, a ‘banker’ in terms of student response – but even I was impressed with, and scared by, this version.
The two actors – John MacKay and Daniel Burke – were terrific, handling the creeping dread, moments of comedy, and jump scares (with gratifying screams from our pupils) impeccably.
The Old Vic proved the perfect space in which to create such a moody, shifting environment, framing the play’s darkening tone in a satisfyingly chilling way.
As ever, it was a testament to how effective two actors, a simple but revealed set, and deft lighting can be in creating powerful theatre. A gripping, wicked night out!
Mr Duncan Ellis, Director of Drama
