Anne Broom
Moody jazz echoes the siren’s mournful wail. Silhouetted against a London cityscape there is momentary stillness.
As the stage erupts in the innocent fun of a garden fete, quiet, self-contained Arthur Rowe guesses the weight of a fruit cake, an action that will unexpectedly propel him into a web of intrigue.
Daniel Jamieson’s superb adaptation of Graham Greene’s spy thriller Ministry of Fear is a first for the stage and a triumph for Theatre Alibi, cleverly encapsulating its fascinating mix of suspense and surreal humour.
Idiosyncratic characters flit past in the guise of vicar or bizarre fortune teller Mrs Bellairs (Craig Edwards).
With minimal costume and props, actors lightly sketch hilarious cameos – Derek Frood produces a wickedly unforgettable Fullove/Prentice and sinister Dr Forester – instantaneously morphing into darker moments as the story gathers speed.
Using the Northcott’s generous space, action is inventively played out on an angled, skeletal structural set designed by Trina Bramman. Essential period touches ensure the authenticity of the wartime era.
There’s mystery, a hint of past trouble, and a mercy killing, yet absurdity abounds as eccentric characters leap from the pages of a book author Graham Greene described as one of his “entertainments”.
Musicians Adam Cross and Nick Laughlin (sax, clarinet and double bass) create mood, underscoring action.
Director Nikki Sved guides Alibi’s multi-talented ensemble through the thrilling twists and turns of a mysterious jigsaw.
Chris Bianchi’s strong and steady Arthur Rowe is racked with guilt, yet involuntarily becomes enmeshed in both spy story and a gentle love affair with the incomparable Anna (Jordan Whyte).
Michael Wagg and Benjamin Warren complete a fine ensemble creating superb theatre.