Theatre / bristol old vic theatre school
Review: Catastrophe Bay, Bristol Old Vic – ‘A striking, rip-roaring tale’
The very title ‘Catastrophe Bay’ summons up images of smuggling mischief: ships being lured to their doom on the rocks; the townsfolk determined to get as drunk as they can on the barrels of rum transported to shore; hearty singing about the perils and beauty of the cruel sea.
All of these tropes are well represented here. However, there is much more to the story, too. Staged at Bristol Old Vic, this is a Bristol Old Vic Theatre School production calling not only on the talents of a 15-strong cast of newcomers, but also from a team of creatives perfecting their craft in anticipation of fulfilling artistic careers.
Not only that, but the whole piece has been specially commissioned as part of Bristol Old Vic’s Open session programme for West Country writers and musicians Kit Buchan and Jim Barne.
is needed now More than ever
Catastrophe Bay, presented by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – photo: Craig Fuller
What we get, then, is a rip-roaring tale featuring a roguish Murdo Moxy played with full Flashman relish by Tom Mordell, arriving in the fictional Cornish village of Newfrock alongside his spirited young daughter Eleanor (Carlie Diamond).
The mercantile owners have sent them to discover why ships are constantly running aground in the area and to root out whatever murderous villainy they can. The tale involves a gaggle of oddballs reminiscent of Under Milk Wood, each one well drawn and enabling the whole cast to have their moment.
In a company as deep as the ocean itself it is difficult to pick out individuals as the whole ensemble, superbly directed by Derek Bond, weave tall tales, and sing songs of lost love, beached whales, and heavenly intervention.
Catastrophe Bay, presented by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – photo: Craig Fuller
The evocative set, designed by Mathew Cassar – himself on the MA Performance Design course – enhances the fun by filling the stage with seafaring flotsam and jetsam. There are ropes, galleys and lanterns aplenty while elongated lit fisherman’s cottages pop up in the background.
Lighting by the BOVTS’ own Hugo Dodsworth delivers clarity while retaining that most precious commodity: not being too obvious while transforming the mood literally at the flick of a switch.
There are great comic moments throughout, provided in no small part by the script which never allows the characters to become stereotypes. Joséphine-Fransilija Brookman’s marvellously swaggering landlady Maisie Tremaine and Chiara Lara’s exotic Penny Danza both sing wonderfully sexually charged numbers while Josh Penrose’s Tom Scudgeon smirks and grimaces, displaying expert comic timing.
Catastrophe Bay, presented by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – photo: Craig Fuller
Other highlights are the interaction of the children who come across Londoner Eleanor Moxy putting on airs and graces that are clearly assumed. Alexander Uzoka, Camilla Aiko, and the very watchable Eve Pereira perfectly capture the naivety of curious scallywags.
The musical narrative is provided courtesy of many of the performers themselves and is inspired by British and European folk songs, expertly conjuring up the anticipation of rollicking nights in the tavern.
The company’s work rate is striking and there are no weak points on the horizon. Special mention is reserved for Joshua Hurley’s rather wayward priest, all swinging arms and fondness for the good things in life. Bill Caple continues to impress following his role in the earlier BOVTS production While My Light is Spent.
Catastrophe Bay, presented by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – photo: Craig Fuller
The whole production never flounders, and no one is lost overboard in the process. A great show which well deserves being performed in the main Old Vic auditorium.
“Come boys, come heave away, for the stars and the billowing spray!
We’re bound for the thundering sound, my boys, we’re bound for Catastrophe Bay!”
Catastrophe Bay is at Bristol Old Vic until July 2 (times vary). For more information and to book tickets, visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
Main photo: Craig Fuller
Read more: Bristol Old Vic triples funding for new commissions
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