THE DESIGN
The show is set in the Edwardian era. It journeys from London to Oakworth but as it is a memory unfolding, the production actually takes place entirely on the platform of the station.
It is a slick show with no time for scene changes and so all settings and furniture are represented by items found on the station platform – cases, trunks, crates, tea chests, etc.
Hidden in all of this luggage are all the props for the show and scene changes are smoothly done by the cast on stage. The villagers of Oakworth often swoop in and out to show a passing of time and reveal timestamps that help to keep younger audience members in the loop with where we are. For example, Mr Perks may move a case only for it to fall open and the belongings fall out – printed inside would be the location and date. Likewise, Mrs Viney could be hanging up the washing and printed on a sheet is the location and date of the scene. These handy hints will not only help the audience keep track, but will keep people looking for smaller details within the production.
You will see from the concept above that there is a railway track running diagonally across the stage. For when a larger change is required, there will be a simple truck that can come in and out on this track carrying those larger items or taking them away. Of course, let’s not forget that there will be a full size train!
There are lots of other tricks and effects I am currently exploring to make this show really special but I’ll keep those quiet just now.