New School Production
Snark is the story of children on a London bombsite during World War II; their losses, friendships and triumphs which are all blown sky high at the climax of the play when the ‘Snark’ – an unexploded bomb – is detonated.
Under the capable direction of Andy Dean, the enthusiastic cast, drawn from Years 9 and 10, gave a highly enjoyable ensemble performance which presented the audience with a range of individual characters bringing out the comedy and the pathos of the piece.
Shamir Vekaria had tremendous assurance in his role as Barmy, the boy whose father was ‘fighting in Burma’ but in reality a criminal in prison. Adam Bloom very creditably sustained the demanding role of the refugee Jewish boy, Baker, ably partnered with Joshua Simon who gave a thoroughly engaging performance as Beaver, the friend and ultimate betrayer of Baker. Holly Kingdon played a highly believable bossy Belle and Anthony Coote and Charles Bloom were very convincing throughout as gang members Brains and Bonkers.
The simple but effective set, together with well-chosen music of the 40s, the sound, lighting and smoke effects courtesy of the hard-working student stage crew successfully recreated the blitz under the technical supervision of Andrew Stead and Neil Francis.