Although there are signs of a writer trying to learn his craft, Dangerous Corner is your typical, fluidly written J.B Priestley script where everything is intertwined and gradually becomes revealed as the play goes on.
Affairs, unrequited love, secrets of sexuality are all discovered in the course of the evening. When you think you are getting to the bottom of it, Priestley throws in a curve ball to leave you wondering in delightful anticipation. The play does not quite strike the level of An Inspector Calls: but that can be forgiven considering the later is such a classic.
This production stays true to the 1930’s setting, which seems essential to the events that the play describes. Gary McCann’s realistic Art Deco set and costumes give the required opulent feel to the world the characters inhabit. Michael Attenborough’s subtle direction ensures that the pace is sharp which is vital in a production of this type.
The acting is good all round, with Kim Thomson shinning the brightest as Olwen; her grounded and sophisticated performance really drives the play along. Her confession scene was truly a compelling watch and her battling with her own truth throughout the play really caught the eye.
Michael Praed gives a controlled performances as Stanton, his moustached performance is barely recognisable from the work the public have seen him in on both the big and little screens; however one feels it would have been more suited for television than the stage. Lauren Drummond’s fiery Betty is welcome among all the more subtle characters, her characters revelations are handled perfectly and she finds the grit in the character wonderfully.
All in all, this cast copes well with not the easiest of material; it is always going to be sitting in the shadow of An Inspector Calls. This kind of plot requires the full attention of the audience at all times and the cast engage us in such a way as to ensure this is the case. It is nice to see some of J.B Priestley’s earlier drama presented, which are often overlooked.
You’ll see better plays Dangerous Corner but this production is refreshing and well performed – and in thrillers isn’t it more satisfying if you don’t already know the plot after all? ★★★★☆ Sam Chipman 4/11/14
