REVIEW: MOONFLEET,

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE.

This is a brand new musical version of John Meade Falkner’s fascinating, thrilling, classic novel, first published in 1898.

Set in 1757, and based around the atmospheric coastal village of Moonfleet in Dorset, the exciting action also moves to the Isle of Wight and Holland.

This is the story of teenage orphan John Trenchard – beautifully played by Ryan Heenan – and his search for adventure, romance and fulfilment.

The stunning stage set – almost inevitable now with the Playhouse – is darkly atmospheric, creatively adroit, and compellingly effective.

Brilliant Musical Director Michael Haslam leads a wonderful live orchestra including woodwind, cello, keyboards, and percussion.

The brand new score with swirling music by Russell Hepplewhite and tight intelligent lyrics by Gareth Machin drive the dramatic storytelling.

Among ten superb vocalists, Ashley Mercer as Blackbeard excels through his deep tones and sheer dramatic presence. Simon Butteriss delivers an appropriately serious Reverend Glennie and a mesmerising Aldobrand in the Dutch diamond scene.

Particularly compelling is the scary church crypt scene with the smugglers’ illegal contraband lurking beneath the foggy floorboards.

The dangerously deep well in Carisbrooke Castle where young John searches for Blackbeard’s hidden treasure, the genuinely horrific hot branding scene, and the scarily convincing shipwreck are unforgettable.

This fantastic new production may be set for a glittering future in British theatre – enjoy it in Salisbury while you can. Moonfleet runs until May 5, matinees Thursday and Saturday.

Brendan McCusker