THE WINSLOW BOY - Bromley Little Theatre

Set in 1912 this Terence Rattigan play, based on a true event, is the account of what transpired when a 13 year old naval cadet from a middle-class family was dishonourably discharged from his naval school for stealing a five shilling Postal Order. Vehemently maintaining his innocence, the boy is believed by his father who is then determined to get justice and have the case tried in court at whatever cost. It takes two years for this to happen and we, the audience, are witness to the financial and emotional toll on the family during this period. 

When the screen rose at BLT it revealed the most authentic looking drawing room of the time. Quite a pleasant change, I thought, from the minimalist sets that are popular these days. I was also extremely impressed by the costumes which I am sure were true to the era as BLT seems not to tolerate anything less than perfection in any aspect of productions. As for the actors, well they were all really great and gave very believable performances (of course!). For this reason I hesitate to single anyone out, but I have to say Deborah Hedges, as Violet the Parlour Maid, was absolutely brilliant, especially towards the end of the play. Ticket prices may have gone up slightly this year but we are still getting West End standard at a fraction of the cost and it was very much enjoyed by 40 theatre group members.

Contributed by Pat Ward