4 Stars

****

Keepers is an extra-ordinary combination of words, movement, sound effects, music and lighting. The successful blend gives a memorable theatrical experience. This true story is set on the Smalls lighthouse of the Welsh coast around two hundred years ago. It portrays two lighthouse keepers Thomas Howell and Thomas Griffith played by Martin Bonger and Fionn Gill. They immediately look the part with their rough beards.

In the first half of the play the tone is light hearted and humorous. The two men have differing personalities. Howell is serious and conscientious whilst Griffith is more extrovert but also something of a dreamer. However, their job is dangerous and mood changes when Griffith dies in an accident. Left alone with a dead body, Howell descends into insanity. Now, with few words, the emotions are expressed physically.

The two actors work so well together in their movement using simple props in the creation of many mental images. The relatively simple story is given an intelligent and powerful treatment. As a footnote; after this event, lighthouses were always manned by three keepers.

Reviewed by Ben

Venue; Venue Number                  Pleasance Courtyard; V33

Dates                                                  4 to 30 August 2010 (not11, 18)

Times                                                 16.00 to 17.00

Fringe Programme Page Number: 264