Review: To Kill A Mockingbird at Clwyd Theatr Cymru

Feb 16 2010 by Francesca Elliott, Chester Chronicle

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD/Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold, until February 27

REVIEW/by Francesca Elliott

CLWYD Theatr Cymru’s new season has got off to a cracking start with their in house production of Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird.

As we have come to expect with Clwyd, the acting, direction, costume and set were all impeccable and it was another night thoroughly enjoyed.

The story centres round the small town of Maycomb, Alabama during the 1930s, and is told through the eyes of eight year-old Scout Finch, the daughter of eminent lawyer Atticus.

The audience watch dramatic events unfold through the eyes of Scout, frequently understanding more than Scout herself about what is going on.

At a time when racial segregation and suspicion was still rife, Tom Robinson, a gentle 25-year-old black man is accused of raping a young white woman.

Much to the disapproval of the rest of the town, Atticus takes on the challenge of defending Tom’s case, with the subsequent court room scenes providing some of the most poignant and exciting action of the play.

Simon Armstrong’s portrayal of the brutish Bob Ewell is entirely believable as is Gwyn Vaughan Jones ever unflappable Atticus Finch.

Amy Morgan is a very watchable Scout and keeps the audience engaged with ease, her southern accent never wavering.

That is more than can be said for some of the other cast members, but on the whole the acting and singing from the cast was excellent.

Call the box office on 0845 330 3565 or visit www.clwyd-theatr-cymru.co.uk for tickets and information.