Independent Means by Bolton Little Theatre MORE than 100 years since it was penned, the lessons contained within Stanley Houghton's play have not been learned.
A leading member of the Manchester School of dramatists, Houghton sets his story in the fictional town of Salchester (an amalgam of Salford and Manchester — see what he did there?) and tackles the themes of new money and fortunes gained and lost.
Edgar and Sidney Forsyth have returned early from their honeymoon much to the surprise of his parents, and it is immediately obvious there are problems within the marriage, with political opinions poles apart and financial difficulties largely left unspoken emerging from behind the velvet sofas of their opulent home.
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| Edgar and Sidney Forsyth played by Phil Lunt and Rachel Hadjigeorgiou |
The music is period, the set, thanks to furniture loaned by Bolton Pianos, spot-on, and the costumes perfect for the era.
After a slightly slow start the drama builds as the stories unfold and the relationships fall apart.
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| Cast and Crew of Independent Means |
Mr Forsyth's patient wife, the faultless Shirley Ann Hill, meanwhile, gradually lets her frustrations show.
Frances Clemmitt is brilliant as maid Jane who, just as the Forsyth's fortune disappears inherits wealth of her own, while Michael Haworth almost steals the show as rich family friend Samuel Ritchie.
As well as his wealth Mr Forsyth loses his health, but all do not not necessarily live unhappily ever after.
Another great performance from Bolton Little Theatre who, with a few added twists, make what could have been a somewhat dated script their own.
Andrew Mosely, The Bolton News
• Independent Means runs at Bolton Little Theatre in Hanover Street until Saturday. Tickets 334400.
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