Mark-Anthony Turnage and Rachael Hewer have given E Nesbit's 1906 classic 'The Railway Children' a fresh new lease on life in this lively family opera. The story is now set in the 1980s, which has helped to shake off the nostalgic haze that clings to its original pages.
Hewer's libretto is a triumph, capturing the fast-paced energy of John le Carré meets Famous Five at its best. Her script effortlessly blends suspense and intrigue with relatable family dynamics, beautifully matched by Stephen Langridge's production. The set design by Nicky Shaw is versatile and cleverly utilises an open and shut camera effect to seamlessly shift between government offices and railway stations.
The costume and prop designs add a delightful touch of visual charm, ranging from Cold War chic to 1980s baggy attire, complete with props such as a Rubik's Cube. The cast delivers strong performances, particularly Jessica Cale, Matthew McKinney, and Henna Mun, who all bring believability and heart to their respective roles as the three Railway Children.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Rachael Lloyd and Edward Hawkins as parents Cathy and David, who add depth and complexity to the story. Gavan Ring shines as the endearing Mr Perks, while James Cleverton lends authority to Sir Tommy Crawshaw, a deus ex machina of sorts. Bethany Horak-Hallett delivers a deliciously sinister performance as Yolanda.
However, it's Turnage's music that truly steals the show. His energetic score is full of motoric effects, cleverly incorporating train noises and other sounds to create a unique sonic landscape. The conductor, Tim Anderson, and the Glyndebourne Sinfonia bring this vibrant music to life with finesse.
Overall, 'The Railway Children' opera is a commendable addition to Turnage's impressive operatic canon. While it may not be as effortless as some of his other works, it is a lively and engaging family opera that will delight audiences of all ages.
Hewer's libretto is a triumph, capturing the fast-paced energy of John le Carré meets Famous Five at its best. Her script effortlessly blends suspense and intrigue with relatable family dynamics, beautifully matched by Stephen Langridge's production. The set design by Nicky Shaw is versatile and cleverly utilises an open and shut camera effect to seamlessly shift between government offices and railway stations.
The costume and prop designs add a delightful touch of visual charm, ranging from Cold War chic to 1980s baggy attire, complete with props such as a Rubik's Cube. The cast delivers strong performances, particularly Jessica Cale, Matthew McKinney, and Henna Mun, who all bring believability and heart to their respective roles as the three Railway Children.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Rachael Lloyd and Edward Hawkins as parents Cathy and David, who add depth and complexity to the story. Gavan Ring shines as the endearing Mr Perks, while James Cleverton lends authority to Sir Tommy Crawshaw, a deus ex machina of sorts. Bethany Horak-Hallett delivers a deliciously sinister performance as Yolanda.
However, it's Turnage's music that truly steals the show. His energetic score is full of motoric effects, cleverly incorporating train noises and other sounds to create a unique sonic landscape. The conductor, Tim Anderson, and the Glyndebourne Sinfonia bring this vibrant music to life with finesse.
Overall, 'The Railway Children' opera is a commendable addition to Turnage's impressive operatic canon. While it may not be as effortless as some of his other works, it is a lively and engaging family opera that will delight audiences of all ages.
! It's amazing how the new setting in the 80s helps bring the story to life, especially with Rachel Hewer's libretto - it's like a John le Carré meets Famous Five mashup 
. The production is top-notch, from Nicky Shaw's set design to Bethany Horak-Hallett's chilling performance as Yolanda 
. And Turnage's music? Mind-blowing! His use of train noises and motoric effects creates this infectious energy 
. Definitely a win-win for families and opera fans alike 
. I mean, I get it, he's supposed to be this important person but come on. It feels like they're trying too hard to make him a 'villain' 
. And another thing, why did they change the setting from 1906 to 1980s? Are they trying to distract us from something? 
It's like Mark-Anthony Turnage is trying to take on the likes of Philip Glass and their iconic operatic style, but with his own unique twist. I think it's great that he's pushing the boundaries of opera and making it more accessible to a wider audience. But, you know what would've been interesting? If they'd included some commentary on class & economic inequality like Turnage's other works do 
The 80s were all about excess & wealth disparity, so I think that thread could've added an extra layer of depth to the story.
I just saw this production of The Railway Children with my little ones and oh man they absolutely loved it! 
I was a bit worried about how the modern twist would work but honestly the set design, costumes and music all came together so well to create an immersive experience. 
Rachael Hewer's script is BRILLIANT 
and Stephen Langridge's production is top-notch 
The cast is amazing, especially Jessica Cale, Matthew McKinney, and Henna Mun 
- Nikanorov
. But what really gets me is how they've managed to blend action and suspense with relatable family drama - it's not just for kids anymore! I'm also loving the set design, it's so cleverly done 
, it's got that perfect blend of energy and heart. Overall, I'm thoroughly enjoying this production - it's a must-see for anyone who loves opera or just great storytelling 
And the costumes! I mean, who wouldn't want to see a grown-up Cathy and David in their baggy 80s outfits