Ageing Leo Colston (played sensitively by Michal Crawford) revisits his memories of three summer weeks when we was 12 years old and stayed with the wealthy Maudsley family of his friend Marcus in Brandham Hall in Norfolk. Thrust into an upper class world of adult conversation he is beguiled by Marcus’ older sister Marian. But then saddened when required to act as the go-between to carry her secret messages to Ted, a nearby tenant farmer. He is deeply regretful of his role in the disastrous outcome which causes him deep psychological scars.
The staging and lighting are simple and subtle but powerfully evocative – both of a rich stately home and the countryside. The way that Crawford as older Leo, vividly remembering his past, shadows the young Leo on stage is powerful theatre magic.
The two young boys (from a cast of six) are excellent in their roles. And they accurately convey the innocence of carefree summer days – swimming, playing cricket and sliding down hay stacks. The young man playing Leo was outstanding and will no doubt go far for both his dramatic acting and singing skills.
The story unfolds slowly which might make some musical lovers a little impatient. It's more like an opera. And whilst the singing and harmonies are beautiful – they are accompanied only by a piano and melancholic. The wistful and haunting song “Butterfly” – echoing young Leo’s transformation as he falls under the spell of Marian (Gemma Sutton of Gypsy fame) – made a lasting impact.
The musical is quintessentially English and poignant, but may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
http://www.apollotheatrelondon.co.uk/the-go-between/
