The Croft
Laura and Suzanne arrive at a former Crofters Hut in the Scottish Highlands, belonging to Laura’s father. Cut off from the amenities of the modern world and with Laura dealing with her mother’s death and Suzanne dealing with an impending divorce, they are left with just the basics, drawing them in to the past and the lives that passed before them in the dark history of the Croft.
Written by Ali Milles and based on a true highland story, The Croft is a haunting tale of the past and the present becoming entwined. Directed by Alastair Whatley and with original direction by Philip Franks, this play is captivating throughout. There is an ongoing feeling of anticipation and intrigue as the story plays out and a few jump scares for those that require them.
Gracie Follows plays Laura, the young woman who is trying to impress her older lover Suzanne, played by Caroline Harker, whilst fighting with her feelings towards her parents and ‘family friend’ David, played by Gray O’Brien. Both Follows and Harker are strong storyteller’s and have a pleasant relationship between their characters, even when they are disagreeing there is a relatable understanding of their feelings, and it is easy to warm to both characters and their struggles.
O’Brien is an affable addition to the trio and helps to lighten the mood of some scenes whilst creating an atmosphere of intrigue in others and bringing each of the other characters into the story, whether that be in the past or the present narrative.
Overall, this is a thrilling production with engaging characters, an absorbing storyline, and compelling performances.
Highly recommend for a riveting evening!
This show was reviewed on the 20th May 2025 at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry where it runs until the 24th May 2025. Full tour details here: The Croft 2025
Review written by Rachel Louise Martin
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Photo credit: Manuel Harlan
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