twelfthnight

This was the first Victorian Fayre show we put on at in indoor venue. After several successful shows in the Black Horse Stables (in the December cold) we decided to do a longer run and go into the warmth of the upstairs bar. What a success it was. After our first three-night run, so many potential audience members had been turned away that we re-staged it in January - including Twelfth Night itself - to two more packed houses. I remember three things very clearly about this production (aside from the usual camaraderie and beer that goes with an OCP show). Firstly, the simplicity of the staging - with just one wooden trunk and a pot plant as set, two floodlights and a lighted stained-glass window, the audience on two sides and very close. It felt very simple and honest, but very 'real' - the audience were right there in the room with the characters. Secondly, some exemplary performances from OCPers, new and established. Fabulous musicianship (all acoustic) and singing (un-amplified) added to wonderful, bold and unshowy acting. Thirdly, the steam-driven train ride in Manor Square on the night of the Victorian Fayre which hooted during the highly-charged, emotional and perfectly timed pauses. Great fun. Amy Verity