Blue Light Theatre are back in a new home for the week – switching pantomime pandemonium for something a little more sinister and scaly with their brand new murder mystery.
Murder at Reptilian Park is at The Galtres Centre, Easingwold, from Thursday 20 to Saturday 22 June.
As the curtains part in the Galtres Centre, the stage is covered with bats, spiders and ghosts, oh my, confirming to the audience that we are now on a very special visit to the notorious Reptile Park. A park riddled with callous creatures, which of course includes our cast of soon to be suspicious suspects.
The writing by Perri Ann Barley is sharp, pacy and crafty, sculpting a well thought out and brilliantly bonkers plot, with excellent delivery by a hardworking cast. Despite first night nerves, occasional prompts and a last minute step in from Phillip Bridgewater due to illness, they did a superb job of transporting us through the eccentric happenings and each brought an unparalleled uniqueness to their characters.
Brenda Riley’s direction enabled each scene to pass by effortlessly with smooth transitions and visual variations throughout, meaning despite the performance taking place in one location – the ghost train turned staff room – we were still taken on an unpredictable and exciting journey. I especially enjoyed each and every cliff hanger, perfectly placed to leave the audience wanting more.
All the characters we met had their own hiss-stories which unraveled before us, whether blackmail, illegal activities or ulterior motives; it stayed true to its murder mystery format, we were never sure whodunnit but we had plenty of reasons why they would! As these revelations came so did the audible gasps and surprise from the audience – a perfect indication of a job well done by Barley and team.
Whilst all performers brought fresh and fiery performances through their endless entangled quarrels, I must highlight Zoe Paylor who played Raven. Sporting makeup as delightfully moody as her character, she injected a fresh energy upon each entrance, including as her additional contrasting role, Princess Reptilia.
Glen Gears also shone, as he portrayed both Magnus Drake and Nathan Grassmore, and was the main recipient of the audiences well received laughter.
Blue Light Theatre are not only delivering a charming fresh new mystery play, but what is always a guarantee is their strong sense of community which can be felt throughout the performance – it is always a joy to watch them perform.
If you want to take on this case crawling with surprises, book your tickets here. Tickets are £12.
Tread carefully…you never know what creepy critter awaits!