Stunning version of 'The Railway Children'

[John Ashworth]

Stunning version of children's story at York railway musuem (sic)
Saturday, 2nd August 2008
Harrogate Advertiser

The Railway Children, National Railway Museum, York.

FEW people find it easy to remain un-moved by the sight of a real steam train pulling into a station in all its magnificent working glory.

Those who have been lucky enough to watch the highly-anticipated production of The Railway Children at York's National Railway Museum have been treated to such a delight and consequently word has spread like wildfire that this is something special.

Even without the crowd-pulling attraction of a real steam train in the performance, the play is a wonderfully well written adaptation of Edith Nesbit's quintessential Edwardian children's tale.

Directed by York Theatre Royal's artistic director Damian Cruden, the play's train track set, though simple, is well thought out, unusual and atmospheric and the acting is sublimely polished.

The classic play, which tells the story of three well-off London children who move to Yorkshire after the mysterious disappearance of their father, should be given full credit for its prolific abilities to appeal to a wide-ranging audience.

Several moments of subtle humour secure its suitability for adults while its interactivity makes it appealing to children children.

Despite the actors' close proximity to the audience the play successfully captures the Edwardian era detailed so diligently in the original 1906 book.

High-neck frilly costumes, reference to nostalgic food items and hanky-waving make it easy to allow yourself to be transported back in time.

And the arrival of its biggest star, a beautiful Stirling Single 39 tonne steam locomotive, is a true wonder in itself.

The play has been interestingly penned by highly acclaimed children's playwright, Mike Kenny whose previous work includes The Little Mermaid for York Theatre Royal and Flat Stanley for West Yorkshire Playhouse.

Its three central characters - the railway children - are all now in their 20s but Kenny still manages to portray their remarkable childhood experiences with the innocence and excitement a youngster of that era would.

With a stellar cast, which includes Marshall Lancaster, best known as DC Chris Skelton in Life on Mars and established TV actor Colin Tarrant, the play is well worth a visit.

York could not be a better placed to stage a sensational play centred on steam trains. With its rich locomotive history and heritage it almost has an innate right.

The Railway Children is at York's National Railway Museum until August 23.

Both daily matinees and evening performances are available. Tickets are £15 for adults and £10 for children. Family tickets are £40 and include four people.

Call the York Theatre Royal box office on 01934 623568 or visit http://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk for details.

Susannah Berry

[Chris Janisch]

Great excuse for visiting the UK!
Bring the play here. After all, heritage operators are the South African Railway Children. In an orphanage...