The Railway Children at the Belgrade Theatre Coventry Review

Reviewed by Cate Norris

There may be many who have seen the film, ‘The Railway Children’, based on E. Nesbit’s book of the same title. Others may have read the book which is famous for being the first ever written for children, but if you’re anything like me, you may have previously said book, sitting untouched on your bookshelf and never actually managed to sit down and watch the film from start to finish. Now this could have been because I just happened to be very busy or preoccupied every time I attempted to watch the film version of ‘The Railway Children’ but I suspect that in actual fact, it simply failed to hold my interest. The same cannot be said for the theatre production however, which was not only captivating from start to finish but incredibly funny too, not only did it have me and my tweenagers chuckling along, but the entire audience, who ranged from child to senior.

Part narrated by station-master Perks (Stewart Wright), I found myself completely engaged in the story and wrapped up in the lives of the characters on stage. We discovered how Roberta (Millie Turner), Phyllis (Katherine Carlton), Peter (Vinay Lad) and their Mother (Joy Brook) came to be living at Three Chimneys Cottage in the countryside, a far cry from the luxury they were used to in their London home before their father left. With their home overlooking the railway, the three children become frequent visitors to the station, waving each day to an old gentleman (Neil Salvage) travelling on the 10.15 and soon befriend the station master, Perks and his son John (Callum Goulden). Although somewhat worse off than they had been before, the children are set a fine example by their strong mother, and by staying positive in the face of adversity, and by doing good deeds for others and accepting help from others (if a little reluctantly at first) we learn much about justice, the sense of community and the kindness of strangers, all of which eventually help Roberta uncover a mystery which left me with a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye.

Seamless transitions between sets, made what I suspect was a hugely complicated technical arrangement, look effortless. Faultless performances by an outstanding cast make it impossible to select a favourite scene, however I think the strong contrast in characters is what sets this show apart. The charisma of Perks, the cheekiness of John, the sophistication of the old gentleman and the strength and kindness of mother and Roberta come together to make something quite special and unique. A highlight throughout was Peter and Phyllis’ relationship which was the epitome of sibling rivalry, expertly played and a delight to watch.

The Belgrade Theatre is a pleasant little theatre in a central location. Staff were welcoming and friendly. There is a bar, café and several kiosks, all generously stocked with drinks, cakes and ice creams. Card payments are accepted at the bar and café and there is ample seating around those areas to enjoy purchases. The ideal spot to park is the Belgrade Plaza, but finding this can be tricky if not prepared, however the postcode and a video of how to get to it is helpfully provided on the Belgrade Theatre’s website under the ‘visiting us’ section.

The Railway Children is a charming, endearing and heart-warming production that I cannot recommend enough. If you’re planning on seeing a show this autumn, ensure it’s this one. Take your parents, take the kids, just make sure you don’t miss out!

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £16.50 to £67 (booking fees may apply).

The Railway Children is at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry from 11-16 September 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.belgrade.co.uk or call the box office on