I must admit that I was rather intrigued to be seeing a play in a football club!

How would they do it? What would it be like? Well, to be honest, it was rather good!

On entering the club we were treated to the first sight of the stage. It was quite a large stage, and on the stage was a milk churn, a station seat, a lamppost and a sign that said Oakworth.

The set was simple, but effective. Throughout the evening, very efficient stage hands changed scene in an efficient way. At the end of the first act we were even a ‘real train’ coming on stage. Fabulous!

The cast was led by Neil Whitaker as Perks, the Stationmaster. He took on the role of narrator and commenting on various events that had taken place and occasionally joining in the action on the stage.

Neil was very effective in the scene when the Railway Children took him presents from the local people for his birthday.

Mother was played in a very sympathetic way by Briony Holdsworth. Her scenes with the Russian immigrant, and Jim, the schoolboy who broke his leg were very touching.

She also worked well the children in creating a believable family.

Kairen Booth, Lucy Hall and Connor McAvoy played the Railway Children brilliantly. The audience warmed to them immediately.

Particular good scenes were Perks’ birthday, the landslide, and the scenes with the Old Gentleman.

The children playing the Perks children all gave good performances, each giving a different character to their role. Not easy in small roles. Well done!

The Old Gentleman was played perfectly by Graham Mitchell. His diction and characterisation were excellent and had excellent rapport with the children on stage.

There were some good cameo performances from the people playing the villagers, who again made small roles very believable.

Opening night nerves meant that one or two prompts were required.

Director, David Hardman effectively used the stage space and moved the cast round on the stage well.

As I said in the start, a really enjoyable night out. I look forward to the next show they put on!

Richard White