A Streetcar Named Desire, New Venture Theatre

In costume on her way to play Blanche DuBois, Lauren Varnfield attracted stares on the No.1 bus from Kemp Town. Fully immersed in this complex character, she was convincing from her first sigh. Imperious and fragile, enchanting and sly, this delicate spider fascinated and grieved in equal measure.

Arabella Gibbins played Stella beautifully as a steady rock of humanity, well matched to her explosively virile Stanley (Emmet Friel) with his winning, wicked grin. Warren Saunders successfully made Mitch vulnerable and needy but not gullible. This excellent production confidently depicts Tennessee Williams’ New Orleans – only the 100 per cent humidity was missing!

New Venture Theatre, 5 May 2012

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