Witness “The Winslow Boy” Performance in Chichester!
Duration: Approximately 2 hours 50 minutes with a single intermission.
- For tickets, dial 01243 781312 or visit www.cft.org.uk;
- Insights by Timothy Ramsden on 25 July 2001.
A Riveting Reimagining of a Timeless Drama
Set against the backdrop of the 1946 Labour triumph and a post-war, ration-restricted England, one might have expected Rattigan to romantically reminisce about the Edwardian era. Instead, he dives headfirst into a tempestuous period: with a Winslow daughter as a fervent suffragette, looming wars, turbulence in Ireland, and a daring challenge to a shadowy authority. This challenge, brought forth by a mere civilian questioning the establishment’s decisions, threatens to crumble the very foundations of the Winslow family. Consequences ripple outward: the eldest son abandons Oxford, and the daughter’s engagement crumbles. Amidst this, Arthur Winslow (portrayed by Edward Hardwicke) undergoes a dramatic transformation, from a robust figure to a frail individual reliant on a wheelchair. And what’s the crux of this tumult? A mere 5-shilling postal order.
A Cast Without Flaw
While the entire ensemble delivers impeccable performances, the Winslow women stand out, transcending the stereotype of the passive Edwardian ladies. Polly Adams embodies the spirit of the family – astute, constantly worried yet brimming with wit. Under Morahan’s direction, Adams’s portrayal becomes a beacon of humor, radiating equality and humanity. Elisabeth Dermot Walsh’s portrayal of Catherine is a balance of her radical beliefs and the sensibility required of her time. She’s a force, but there’s a delicate grace in her demeanor. Osmund Bullock delivers a memorable performance as the awkward middle-aged family lawyer, Desmond Curry. And David Rintoul’s Sir Robert Morton is reminiscent of a suave Dracula initially, only to reveal a more compassionate side when confronted by Catherine, his ideological rival.
The Silent Horror
A chilling reality underpins the narrative: it mirrors the Archer-Shee family’s fight for their son’s honor. Their eventual victory, however, is overshadowed by the son’s tragic demise at Ypres at a mere age of twenty.
Behind the Curtain: The Magic of Terence Rattigan’s Drama
The true genius of this revival isn’t just in its narrative, but also in the intricate tapestry of emotions and tensions that Rattigan weaves. It’s an exquisite portrayal of a society in transition, capturing the fragility of human relationships when faced with societal upheavals. The timelessness of Rattigan’s work lies in its ability to hold a mirror to society, regardless of the era it represents. Moreover, the Festival Theatre’s rendition has taken the drama a notch higher. The set design complements the intricate plot, with attention to details that transport the audience back in time. The lighting and soundscapes further immerse viewers into the world of the Winslows, making them feel every heartbeat, every sigh of despair, and every moment of triumph.
The essence of this play, however, isn’t just in its poignant moments or dramatic confrontations. It’s in the silent pauses, the unsaid words, and the lingering glances. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices families make, of the battles fought in public and private, and of the resilience of the human spirit. Rattigan’s drama, especially in this revival, underscores the enduring power of theater to touch souls and provoke thought.