‘The Turn Of The Screw’ at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London – review
Heatwave or not, Henry James's haunting period horror remains a chilling watch.
By Will Stroude
The magical quality of watching a production at this outstanding outdoor venue as dusk settles on London never fails to impress.
The fact that this unnerving tale of horror manages to send a chill down the spine during a London heat wave is testament to its power and quality. The light fades, the shadows lengthen and music and song start to fill the twilight gloom.
A governess arrives at a remote country house to take charge of two children, Flora and Miles. The ghosts of the children’s previous tormentors Quint and Miss Jessel stalk the dilapidated rundown mansion, calling and enticing, slowly continuing the torment of all who reside within the crumbling walls.
Is the governess attempting to rescue the children from the clutches of evil? Or are we watching her own mental decline?
Directed by Timothy Sheader, this joint production between the Open Air Theatre and English National Opera is as beautiful as it is unnerving. Two casts alternate the roles over the one-week run and on this particular night they were perfect.
Beautifully connected to each other, their soaring and haunting voices tell this tale of the corruption of childhood innocence. The small ENO orchestra wonderfully directed by Toby Purser adds yet another dimension to this surreal psychological drama.
If you want a London summer experience that is truly unique then get yourself down to the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Food and drink is all part of the experience, so grab a wine and watch the summer day close to the chilling and thrilling sounds of the English National Opera.
Rating: 4/5
The Turn Of the Screw plays at Regent’s Park Open Ai Theatre until Saturday 30 June. For the best deals on shows and events click here.
Words by Matthew Hyde