Dangerous Corner at The Little Theatre Leicester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by H Whetton
Dangerous Corner written by JB Priestley and performed by Leicester drama society. Directed by John Ghent, Dangerous Corner is playing at the Little Theatre in Leicester from Monday the 29th of April until Saturday the 4th of May 2024.
Dangerous Corner is a classic mystery set in 1934. Being a mystery we have been asked not to divulge too much about the play especially the ending to be fair to future audiences.
I can however set the scene. The play starts in the sitting room of the Caplins, wealthy publishing company owners. The Caplins are enjoying post dinner drinks with colleagues, which include Olwen Peel played by Kat Lenthall, Freda Caplin( Roberts wife) played by Joy Brankin-Frisby, Betty Whitehouse( sister-in law to Freda ) played by Rachael Humphrey, Charles Stanton played by Paul Beasley, Robert Caplin ( Freda’s husband) played by John Moulding, Gordon Whitehouse( Freda’s brother and Betty’s husband )played by Stuart Bryon, and author Maud Mockridge, who is played brilliantly by Angela Hill who is like a nosey neighbour whom loves gossip, so comical. During their conversation Maud mentions how she missed Martin Caplin (Robert’s brother) and how tragic his death was. Martin died 18 months ago, whilst Maud was out of the country.
They start to talk about whether or not they believe in telling the whole truth at all times, and whether or not it is healthy. At this they should have paid more attention to sayings such as “don’t poke the bear” or “let sleeping dogs lie” as once the proverbial tap was opened all of their lives would change and maybe not for the better. The story line is full of twists and turns as all good mysteries should.
I loved everyone’s performance tonight, however character wise I found Robert Caplins sheer obliviousness as to what was happening around him, was quite amusing, John Moulding played the part extremely well, his character when though a roller coaster of emotions throughout the play. I also enjoyed the Character of Charles Stanton, he was full of secrets and lies. Paul Beasley gave some light hearted humour to his character and also some softness which I really enjoyed. As I said everyone played their parts brilliantly, the storyline flowed and it was a really enjoyable evening. It was hard to pick out favourite bits especially without giving the storyline away.
The set was very reminiscent of the 1930’s and worked great as the whole play was set in the one room. The costume department did really well, the gentlemen looked dapper in their dinner suits and the ladies looked elegant in their dresses, I loved Freda’s dress and Olwen’s dress both Joy Brankin-Frisby, and Kat Lenthall looked beautiful.
I love The Little Theatre in Leicester, as it sounds it is a small venue with 350 seats. This means no matter where you sit you generally get a fantastic view of the stage. The Little Theatre is fully accessible with really friendly and helpful staff on hand if needed. There is a small bar which is great to meet up in with friends before the show and for refreshments during the interval. There is a small carpark opposite the theatre on Dover Street and there is also an NCP carpark on East Street which is a 5 minute walk to the theatre.
Being an amateur production ticket prices at The Little Theatre are far cheaper than bigger theatres, making a visit to The Little Theatre an affordable night out.
Rating: 5/5
Ticket prices – Standard £16.50 Concessions £15.50 and Premium (Row L) £17.50. There is a £1.00 booking fee.
I really enjoyed Dangerous Corner, and give it 5/5. Go and see it if you get a chance.
https://www.thelittletheatre.co.uk/whats-on/dangerous-corner/
29th April -4th May 2024.
The Little Theatre,
Dover Street, Leicester, LE1 6PW.
BOOKING 0116 2551302
www.thelittletheatre.co.uk