The Three Musketeers at the Rose Theatre in Kingston
By Carolin Kopplin
Keep your head out of politics, your hand out of duelling and your heart out of love.
The Three Musketeers continues Rose Theatre's pledge not to follow the routine of the pantomime period and do something completely different.
Young D’Artagnan has always dreamt of becoming one of the famous musketeers. Now he is on his way to Paris, riding a flea bitten yellow horse named Solomon, with a letter of introduction for Monsieur De Tréville, Captain of the Kings’s musketeers. Paris is a city seething with deadly secrets, intrigue, and, of course romance. When D’Artagnan finally encounters the legendary musketeers Athos, Porthos and Aramis, each of them challenges him to a duel – and D’Artagnan eagerly accepts. However, before any of the duels can take place the musketeers are attacked by Cardinal Richelieu’s men. D’Artagnan is made one of the King’s guards due to his bravery and his challengers have now become his friends. Together they fight against Cardinal Richelieu’s men for the greater glory of the King and France!
There is not a dull moment in Francis Matthews’ rip-roaring production as the actors perform incredible acrobatic feats and participate in some of the most exciting sword fights I have ever seen on stage (fight director: Malcolm Ranson). The action takes place on two levels, the set consisting of a sort of scaffolding with ladders, ropes and other means to allow for long swings from the second level to the ground and other daring stunts (set design by Simon Higlett). The orchestra is situated on the third level.
The ensemble is outstanding. Michael Pickering gives a wonderful performance as the young, and initially naive D’Artagnan, Paul Thornley is glorious as the melancholic Athos who carries a dark secret, Hal Fowler is a very convincing and comical Porthos, and Matt Rawle gives a fine performance as the spiritual romantic Aramis. I was also impressed by C J Johnson as Milady and Kaisa Hammerlund as Constance. Although the story is very well known the actors succeed in making it appear fresh and new.
The Three Musketeers features an original score by George Stiles and lyrics by Paul Leigh. Riding to Paris, Count Me In, and The Life of a Musketeer were so engaging they became instant hits with the audience.
Do not miss this exciting tale of friendship, courage, romance and daring!
Matinee(s) 2.30pm - 12, 19, 24 December 3pm / 26 December & 2 Jan 1pm & 5pm / 31 Dec 5pm
Evening(s) 7.30pm
The Rose Theatre
24-26 High Street, Kingston
Subscribe
