Goodnight Mister Tom at the Waterside Theatre Aylesbury Review
Goodnight Mister Tom
Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury
12-16 April 2016
Reviewed by Sarah Bryan
What a delightful heart-warming story, taken to a new level in this theatre production of Goodnight Mister Tom. Having previously seen the TV adaptation of the novel by Michelle Magorian; I was pleased to see the character of Tom Oakley sensitively portrayed by David Troughton. The accurate accent, the voice and tone as well as the physical mannerisms really brought this kind hearted private soul to life.
The entire cast was a fantastic mix of personalities, which lifted sections of the play where it was needed by the buoyant and sunny Zach played marvellously by Oliver Loades in tonight’s production and taken to depths of depression by the troubled fearsome energy of Mrs Beech played by Melle Stewart.
A constant unfaltering performance was delivered by Alex Taylor-McDowall as William Beech; sometimes having to display some very dark emotions but he managed to do this wonderfully. I for one had tears in my eyes at certain heart tugging parts of the story.
The relationship between William and Tom was scripted in a manner that made you really feel the deepening of the bond as the play unwrapped. It was very cleverly done and the body language and behaviour was so delicately depicted.
An absolutely fantastic addition to the play was the use of puppets, namely Sammie, Tom’s ever faithful canine companion. So beautifully worked, the puppeteer managed to create such natural movement and form and if your imagination allowed, you could really believe the dog was real. The puppeteer was visible enough to allow the audience to marvel at the art work yet discreet enough to not interfere with the stage performance.
I also liked the use of subtle background music and sound effects to enhance the environment that was being created; the soft singing of the birds during the outdoor Dorset scenes to the booming ugliness of the City as we returned to London.
The sets were interchanged seamlessly and were simple enough to not detract from the actors; it was very well lit and arranged very professionally.
The auditorium itself was just comfortably warm and with the easy seating and warm wood décor, Aylesbury Waterside Theatre gives a cosy feel. The foyer itself was extremely tidy and clean with a good level of visible staff and security who were very friendly, welcoming and helpful. The facilities were well stocked and again well-kept and clean. I could see people using additional aids that are available to hire such as the booster seats and the hearing loop which seemed to improve the comfort for the users.
The refreshments available at the main bar and mini kiosk in the foyer and at the various carts situated within the auditorium held a good selection and I was delighted to see the use of locally sourced products such as Beechdean ice cream. I was also pleased to be offered a plastic cup for my drink, to enable me to take this back inside for the second half rather than feel rushed.
Parking was ample for the theatre and the pay and display machine was easy to understand. The location is in a busy area of town which made me feel safe and secure.
It was a very pleasant trip to the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury to see a wonderfully emotive play delivered by a superb standard of cast members.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £14.40 to £31.40 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
Goodnight Mister Tom is at the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury until 16 April 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 7607.
Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG | 0844 871 7607
