King Arthur and the Holy Grail

The Atrium, North Walsham

When faced with a complete empty stage you wonder how a show can grab your attention, but with a minimum of props, some atmospheric lighting and special effects you are transported to the world of King Arthur.

King Arthur and the Holy Grail was written by Joseph Ballard, the Atrium artistic director and he produced a show that held the attention of adults and children alike.

The show featured a cast of professional actors and youngsters from the town's youth theatre and drama group which was split into two groups performing alternate shows. For some of the children this was their first public performance and they did themselves proud. The boys obviously enjoyed the sword fighting scene.

All the adult actors gave entertaining performances. Nicole Tremblay was a spooky Morgana, and Joseph Ballard's Fisher King involved the audience to help with his spell.

As well as the dramatic scenes the show had some comic interludes - Morgana's 'talking heads' was a clever sequence.

The dragon, slain by King Arthur, consisted of a pair of moving eyes projected onto the backdrop which was also a novel idea. Anglia TVs Helen McDermott made an appearance as the voice of the Lady of the Lake.

The cast carried on regardless despite an opening night problem with the fire alarm interrupting the first half three times.

The audience were also taken by surprise by members of the cast using water guns in the auditorium, but took it in good part.

This was a different but highly entertaining Christmas show, and hopefully the Atrium will continue to offer this kind of alternative production.

The show continues until December 21. Call the box office on 01692 400080.

Judy Crane