Anne Boleyn – Wolf at the Door At The Lighthouse, Poole Review

Reviewed by Hannah S-W

Again it was great to be back at the Lighthouse to see Anne Boleyn – Wolf at the Door. Ample parking is available from carparks around the lighthouse theatre so there is no cause for concern about struggling to get situated. The staff at the lighthouse were warm and welcoming upon approach and more than happy to help when needed. The theatre itself has a cozy feel to it making the event feel incredibly intimate and have feel of friends – this was only enhanced by the gentle hum of excited chatter before the performance.

The show was in the Sherling Studio which has recently been refurbished. This quaint theatre lends its self to small-scale performances, and intimate talks. The studio can be accessed on the ground floor. The stage is set in the centre with bench seating around the sides and front which provides a lovely sound and acoustics for the theatre. Unfortunately the seating is unreserved so if you wish to be front and centre you do have to get in line early. However it would appear that a good view of the centre would be obtained from any seating area in the studio.

Poole-based singer songwriter Bob Whitley has entertained audiences across Dorset with songs inspired by history, politics and the events of his own life. In recent years he has extended his song writing into the realm of musicals, performing with cellist/singer Lee MacKenzie.

Unsure as to what to expect Lee MacKenzie and Bob Whitley narrate the story beautifully through the introductions to the songs. They have a simple set and they are seated at a table set with simple props – a candle and quill pen in an ink pot. The duo perform in 16th century attire to complete the look and feel of court bards. The story being told between songs from a beautiful leather bound book. Lanterns surround the duo creating a wonderful ambiance and cozy feel. The lighting bathed the performers in a soft blueish light. They perform as Shakespeare bards in 16th century costume to take the audience back to the court of Henry VIII telling the musical story of the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn. They sing the songs as a beautiful harmonising duo with Bob on guitar, tenor guitar and octave mandola and Lee on baroque cello and take us back to the 16th Century and the story of the triumph and tragedy of Anne Boleyn.

It was wonderful to see a good turn out for the duo with an eclectic mix people. Programs were available to purchase upon entering the theatre for £5. These detailed tidbits of information about the story and also the lyrics of the songs that the duo sang throughout the performance.

The story follows Anne Boleyn from when she arrives at the court of Henry VIII in 1522, through the time until she replaces Katherine of Aragon as Queen of England after charming King Henry over a period of 6 years. It continues through her unfortunate failure to have a son with King Henry and produce a royal heir as she promised. Anne Boleyn ultimately was beheaded and replaced by Jane Seymour in 1536. Also during this time the Tudor Court is full of scheming courtiers, religious fervour and feuding families as they are all are fighting for the King’s favour in a deadly battle of destinies and dynasties?

If you are someone who enjoys beautifuly composed music and or historical stories this is a performance for you. You can next catch Anne Boleyn – Wolf at the Door on 7th July at Milford on Sea Community Centre

Tickets started from £13.75 at the Lighthouse website https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/
Rating: I would give the show a 4/5 and would recommend it if you enjoy folk storey telling in song. Anne Boleyn – Wolf at the Door at Poole Lighthouse was a one night only showing.

The Lighthouse is at 21 Kingland Rd, Poole BH15 1UG and they can be contacted on 01202 280000