Carnival of Souls , Simple Theatre – Cameo 1

*** (3 stars)

Carnival of Souls is based on the 1962 Herk Harvey horror movie of the same name. Simple Theatre’s production has been devised around this cult classic; using live performance, screen projections and intricate sound design.

The plot centres on a young woman who is suffering the profound effects of trauma following a major car accident. She becomes withdrawn, shunning social interaction and only occasionally does she allow her lecherous neighbour to have insights into her emotional state. When a strange, ghostly figure starts appearing to her, she rejects the possible salvation of religion or medicine and instead becomes embroiled in a world of ghoulish spirits.

On entering the cinema, which has been decked out with ropey bunting and eerily glowing balloons, there is an atmosphere of creeping unease. This is exacerbated by the on-screen carousel ride and fairground music which is played with increasing rapidity.

Unfortunately, this initial tension is not sustained. There are many commendable elements to this production though; the strong central performance by Hayley Millinson is genuinely engaging. Rob Julian’s original soundscape is also effective and intelligent direction from Madeleine Hughes gives rise to some nice moments of Gothic menace. It is also interesting to note that, in this multi-media setting, it is the overtly theatrical dance performances by Dwayne Simms and Nick Keegan, which are most effective. The physical presence of these two ‘Dankdancers’, in the audience, provides the best bridge between the immediacy of theatre and the continued existence of film imagery. More of this technique may have stayed the lingering feeling of detachment.

However, ultimately there is something lacking in this production. This is, in part, because of the inappropriate setting; a smaller, more intense space would have provided a better venue. It feels very much like a work in progress as opposed to the finished, performance-ready article. While the original concept is an interesting one, the execution does not quite live up to the ambition. Those who have a pre-existing knowledge of Harvey’s movie will probably be the most appreciative of this homage to a B-movie landmark.

The Cameo Cinema, 11th August.

Sara-Jane McGeachy