Review: The Silence of the Lambs offers plenty to shout about at Peterborough New Theatre
Bringing an Oscar-laden movie from the “one of the best ever” category to the stage is quite the ask – comparisons to the original are inevitable.
But this new production of The Silence of the Lambs, which opened last night at Peterborough’s New Theatre, is no tribute show – it stands tall on its own two feet and gives the 90s iconic psychological thriller a new lease of life.
Even as the audience take their seats, the music and the projection on the curtain bring a sense of expectation of what is to come.
And no one leaves feeling let down.
Stage debutant Mollie Gallagher is strong and assured as ace FBI trainee Clarice Starling, tasked with, initially at least, extracting some co-operation from locked-up serial killer Dr Hannibal “The Cannibal” Lecter.
That scene-setting plays out nicely, but the edge-of-the-seat tension ramps up considerably with the first appearance of the boiler suited Lecter – the beginning of a truly mesmerising performance from John Partridge.
His every word, pause, movement, posture demands attention – totally gripping. Cold, calculated his sudden outbursts brought plenty of seat shuffling.
The production is slick, visually impressive and fast-paced and I loved the brilliant use of Lecter’s glass cell – it is seen from different angles and becomes more centre stage as his and Clarice’s “quid pro quo” relationship plays out – as much teacher and pupil as is her relationship with her FBI boss Jack Crawford (Oliver Farnworth).
The growing dynamic between the two main protagonists is excellent.
Well-lit, the set cleverly allows the overlapping of the growing Buffalow Bill storyline as everyone’s attention is turned to tracking him down – which is where the real psychological tension comes in. Sam Jackson’s performance is controlled – just as his character is.
There’s a noticeable change of tempo after the interval and while the horror element – I am thinking Lecter’s grisly escape scene in particular – is never unsettling, the sense of danger and anticipation becomes more deep rooted as the hunt for “Bill” nears its dramatic conclusion.
A great cast make this a terrific watch whether you have the seen the film or not.
Dr Lecter will see you now – until Saturday at least.
Tickets from www.newtheatre-peterborough.com