Review: Transfixed by Hetty Feather

PHOTO/WILL WERNER

They say it takes a village to raise a child, and the same is true for the production of a play.

Everyone involved in this production has played a wonderful part and together have raised a tremendous and professional show.

Hetty Feather, the brainchild of author Jacqueline Wilson, comes to life with spirit and vitality, transporting the audience back into the late 19th century with ease. From the moment the curtain opened I was transfixed.

Director Jennifer Wicks asks that we use our imagination, but we really didn't need to as the clever use of the set, the props and the music takes you with ease into the forest, on to the train, and into the cold attic.

Scene changes are done discreetly and seamlessly, and players taking multiple parts all add to the depth and excellent calibre of the show.

Emma Jenkin gives a solid performance as Hetty, bringing the fiery spirit to the fore with ease. Compassion flowed from Sofia Morrell as the motherly Peg who takes on the foundlings until sorrowfully she has to return them to the Foundling Hospital.

Liam Dixon brings a sound interpretation to the character of Gideon, his facial expressions as a youngster struck dumb with grief were strikingly believable.

A relative newcomer to the world of acting, Emma Jackson plays a very convincing Ida. The kitchen scene was great, I swear I could see the bread she was kneading!

The circus certainly came to life in this show. Glitz and glamour arrived with Madame Adeline played skilfully by Hannah Dixon. Her confidence on the round trapeze was solid and accomplished. The arrival of the horses on the stage was wonderful. Beautifully enacted with great flair.

Ruby Carter was first-class in her interpretation of Matron Bottomly. A solid and convincing performance beyond her years. I enjoyed every scene she dominated. The expressions on the faces of the hospital assistants were pure gold.

Tom Waldin as big brother Jem, played a strong part in comforting these young foundlings, and Eve Battersby brought a tear to the eye as she portrayed Saul, once again proving that the expression is as valuable as the spoken word. Special mention to Anais Lawson who captured the spirit of Chino the Clown. Beautifully done, showing the audience that clowns aren't always a barrel of laughs.

Alice Waldin, Bella Uhl, Maya Weir and Sophie Willemsen all provided exceptional characterisations to their parts. All these young people showed great skill in bringing this show to life.

Special mention to the backstage crew. Loved the touch of the wooden pegs on the clothesline, great lighting, especially with the train. Costumes were great.

There were many excellent scenes, but the dance between Hetty's mother and father will live on in my mind for some time.

This show rates as one of the best I have seen in a while. Top marks to everyone in this production. A wonderful Christmas treat for anyone.

* Hetty Feather is on at the Shambles Theatre this Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 7pm, with a matinee show on Saturday at 1pm. Tickets available through Eventfinda.co.nz. Door sales available.