The 'White Witch' still haunts

After months of hard work between actors and the director of the Jane Crichton’s White Witch play, the crew can now breathe a sigh of relief for what many has described as Montego Bay’s best play to date.

According to renowned play director Douglas Prout “I received the manuscript for this play in 2006 from playwright Jane Crichton. This has undoubtedly been one of my most ambitious and daunting directorial challenges to date, and I have so many to thank for strengthening me and helping me to stay the course”.

His success was evident with the standing ovation the entire cast received after Saturday’s grand premiere at the Fairfield Theatre.

Prout, who was moved to tears by the reception he received after the play explained that “it was my privilege to work with this mix of old friends, a few new ones and so many first timers to the business. I have learned so much as I hope I have imparted. I remain a committed servant of this and any space where the Arts are valued”.

White Witch showcased a different side of a woman most celebrated in modern day as the wicked witch of Rose Hall in Montego Bay in the days of slavery. The playwright sought to uncover Annie’s frustration and sadness through the play while at the same time reveal the horrors of slavery and the dreadful life and conditions slaves were forced to live in.

The all star cast included Maylynne Walton who plays Annie Palmer. Walton is renowned for her role in the Blackburns of Royal Palm Estate but she engulfed herself in the role of Annie so much so that the audience found her brilliance to be very entertaining. Keiran King (Robert) made an excellent transition into the role of being Annie’s lover and bookkeeper. 

Philip Clarke (Taku) immersed himself completely into the role of Annie’s obeah man and grandfather to his beloved Millie (played by Noelle Kerr). Peter Abrikian (Joe, a slave overseer) was skillful has he engaged the audience in his role with line as the drama with his slave lover Jestina (played by Angelita McDonald) unfolded.  Montego Bay’s own David Tulloch, Marlon Brown and Georgia Matthews performed creditable well in the role as slaves.  Additional cast includes Coleen B. Lewis, Serina Reid, Omoie Miller, Shanieka Birthright, Nikki Kerr, Denesha Watson, Nedra Tucker, Shenece Lawrence, Carlington Ewar and George Bates.