If you haven’t read the book, and it is a true story, you have missed out but the second best thing is seeing the play. It captures post war Britain still recovering, short on food, living on coupons and making sense of the previous world war. As the play develops we are taken through England’s important historical moments including Queen Elizabeth’s coronation and celebration.
On the other side of the world, in fast-paced New York, a dollar-poor screen writer becomes a beloved contact to first one and then all in a small London vintage bookshop. It is a joy to hear such witty retorts but also to witness the gentle relationship between brash New York and formal London both in changing times for their countries and lives. Letters are exchanged as books are requested and as years go by, the audience witnesses changes in lifestyle and relationships from a formal correspondence to a warm and witty friendship. The audience audibly responded with laughter and sadness as the letters were read and reacted to.
The set was wonderfully lit in warm tones with the bookshop and New York apartment juxtaposed to represent the changing lives of both cities and characters. The set and costume designer had sourced and found genuine or reproduction clothes, jewellery, hats and even seamed stockings that set the era and style so authentically. Floor to ceiling shelves of books enhanced the feeling of being in a bookshop whilst the New York apartment was decorated in a more modern style. There was an intimate connection between the audience and actors being in the round giving the feeling of entering each world.
All actors were believable but the two main actors representing the writer, Helene Hanff and Frank Doel, the bookstore manager, captured the audience’s attention from the start. Helene presented a genuine New York strong accent and for those who have lived in New York, the body language, phrases and pace of delivery rang true. Frank wore the British suits and accent and politeness revealing a deeper side to him as their friendship evolved. The cameo actors were true to their time and the sense of a ‘family’ of colleagues revealed itself as each character interacted with Helene’s letters. Their non-verbal body language was at times funny and at other times, poignant but totally believable. The audience cared for each character and wanted to know about their dreams and aspirations. Knowing that the book is true made us want to find out what happened to each person in the future.
The play showed how well-written dialogue taken from genuine letters creates an atmosphere and audience connection with no clever props or actions required. It was the opening night and the actors and director were rewarded by a standing ovation and loud applause.
To book tickets to 84 Charing Cross Road, please visit https://www.ensemble.com.au/shows/84-charing-cross-road/.
Photographer: Prudence Upton
