Cheam Drama Company is an energetic group of youngsters from Cheam School in Berkshire who return to the Fringe with their adaption of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.
The atmospheric set consisting of ladders with candles on the steps and ropes linking them with hanging lights is easily transformed into the tavern, the boat and the island and works well.
The small, versatile band has a vibrant score but the music tends to drown out the singing and dialogue which is a pity. Hopefully as the run continues, they will be able to get a better sound balance.
The large, enthusiastic cast are uniformly good with inventive ensemble work and clever choreography. Lara Davidson gives a splendid portrayal as Jim Hawkins and sings beautifully. As the Captain, Hermione Longfield needs to find a crew and what a motley bunch they are as they set off on an adventure to find the hidden treasure.
William Hastie creates the evil Long John Silver and Freddie Hall is impressive as the abandoned Ben Gunn.
There is much to enjoy in this lively production including sword fights and the actors appear to relish their roles in this swashbuckling tale.