So this weekend I waltzed down to the Almeida Theatre to see the highly acclaimed and first dramatic production of the Turn of the Screw.
The theatre production of Henry James' famous gothic novel is a first for horror specialists Hammer, who are best known for their iconic horror films from the 60's and most recently their spine chilling adaption of The Woman in Black. You just know that anything that involves Hammer will be spectacular and leave you in sheer terror.
The biggest problem with any form of adaption from play to stage or novel to film is that your vision isn't necessarily everyone else's. I am a big fan of the novel, although it took me years to eventually read it, especially the persevering Governess and the visitations by the ghosts. I was sceptical as to how the tale would translate from the page to the stage, but I needn't have worried. Rebecca Lenkiewicz's script and Lindsay Posner's direction transported the sinister and spooky goings on at Bly to the stage for an utterly terrifying 2hrs and 10mins for the audience.
Without giving away too much, the story centres on a Governess who is sent to a remote estate in Bly to look after Miles and Flora, two orphaned children who are under the legal guardianship of their absent Uncle. Despite starting out well and developing a loving friendship, things soon turn sinister as mysterious figures appear in the grounds and in the house all of which links back to the previous Governess - Miss Jessel.
A stellar cast assisted with bringing the supernatural story to life in a way that made me jump out of my seat and my sister scream in the auditorium. Gemma Jones was completely unrecogniseable as housekeeper Mrs Grose, whilst Anna Madeley (most may recognise her as Miss Ravillious from Mr Selfridge) dominated the play as the Governess seeking to protect her young charges Miles and Flora from evil forces.
It's not just the acting that makes the play, but a special mention must be made to the creative genius of Peter McKintosh and his ever changing set. I've seen so many plays recently where one set suits all, so to see constant changes in the setting to illustrate the eerie tale was a breath of fresh air.
Would I take up a position as a Governess in a remote house in the countryside? Probably not, as undoubtedly there would be a curse or ghosts a plenty roaming the halls. What it has made me realise is that once in a while it's good to move your gaze away from the West End and instead seek out the great plays taking place outside of Theatreland. There's more to London than just zone one.
You only have till Saturday 16th March to see this amazing play, so I advise you book now before you miss out. Visit www.almeida.co.uk for more information.
