Review: Cider with Rosie at The Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
Based on the classic novel by Laurie Lee, 'Cider with Rosie' is a charming depiction of Cotswold country life.
The story tells us of aspects of rural hardship, capturing the highs and lows, good times and bad times, in the life of the young author as he grew up in the Slad Valley near Stroud towards the end and after the First World War.
The part of the mother, played by Corination Street star Susie Blake was expertly portrayed. She was the backbone of the family, bringing up seven children alone. Despite having a great deal of sadness and upset throughout her own life, it was her fighting spirit that carried them through the harsh times. No matter what life threw at them, the glass of 'cider' appeared to be half full rather than half empty!
The accompaniment of several stringed instruments throughout, including the violin played by a young ‘Lol’ created the mood of the moment, with a splendid narration by old ”Laurie’, played by Richard Derrington. The clever set easily adapted for all the scenes, including their home, the church and the famous Woolpack Inn.
At times very amusing, but very sad and moving too. The local dialect was spot on, and the whole cast gave a solid performance.
Probably the most famous novel set in Gloucestershire and delightfully performed on stage in Cheltenham. All in all we thought this was a great adaptation of a classic novel brought home to Gloucestershire - well worth a trip to the Everyman Theatre.
This will be the second in-house production at the Everyman following the success of The Glass Menagerie last year. Cider With Rosie runs until Saturday 30 March 2013 before going on tour to Salisbury, Croydon and Guildford.
Explore Gloucestershire
22 March 2013
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