Review: Dangerous Obsession, by Salterton Drama Club

The play, set in the home of the seemingly happy couple Mr and Mrs Driscoll, follows the haunting tale of John Barrett, who unexpectedly arrives at their home. As the story unfolds, this plot, with more twists and turns than Silverstone, had audiences enthralled from the beginning.

The Driscolls' apparent perfect life begins to unravel as John confesses his true intentions of discovering who is to blame for his wife’s tragic car accident. From the start of this intelligently written play, everyone is a suspect and Barrett had the Driscolls, and the audience for that matter, ensnared throughout.

Matthew Howard was outstanding as the well-mannered yet sinister John Barrett. It was a masterclass in acting and a delight to watch his character evolve. Some of the most powerful moments came from his ominous stoicism, drawing in and captivating the audience. With just a look the atmosphere would change from placid to venomous, and the gun-toting intruder had us relentlessly on the edge of our seats.

Rachel Ratibb was perfectly cast as the friendly yet fiery Mrs Driscoll, emanating a full range of emotions as her character traversed empathy and despair as the plot developed.

The antagonistic Mr Driscoll was fantastically played by Mark Rose, who by the end, the audience delighted in watching squirm.

This three hander was superbly cast by accomplished actor and director Leigh Steedman, who should be commended for his direction in this production. Every inch of the intricate set, lighting and effects had been well planned and expertly executed, right down to the falling dust from the ceiling when the gun went off, each element adding to the suspense of the play and ensuring those audible screams which rose from the enraptured audience.