The Oak Tree

Presented by Fifi Productions as part of ‘Activate Byford’, an initiative to bring culture an excitement to Byford’s town centre, The Oak Tree is a new production with a local setting.

Directed by Jane Sherwood, who this weekend also picked up the 2022 Best Director and Best Production Awards for Stirling Players’ Fluff, this production features a mostly local cast and production crew, including the writer of The Oak Tree, Fiona Blakely, who is very strong in the demanding central role of Kate. 

A ghostly tale, it is very loosely based on local folklore, and tells the story of a young couple, Kate and Lennie, who have relocated to this semi-rural area, into an old farm property, after a sad period in their relationship. They decide to remove an old oak tree on the property, but are faced with some ghostly opposition.

Matthew McKail makes a very promising theatrical debut as Lennie, Fiona Wildsmith (also the producer) is compelling as ghostly visitor Sarah, while Ron Arthurs completes the cast with larrikin charm as Marty.

An otherwise simple but well-designed set by Fiona Wildsmith and Damian Wallace features an impressive titular oak tree, and the production is lit with sensitivity by Callum Hunter. Accompanying moments of filmed footage from Travis Wildsmith and Isobel Blakely and live music from Travis Wildsmith, add to the haunting atmosphere.

A beautiful but at times very sad story, this production should probably carry some trigger warnings. Unfortunately, the issues are also spoilers, so perhaps enquire with the show if you have had close bereavements.

Lovely to see ‘Activate Byford” producing quality local theatre, and to see a healthy crowd enjoying this locally produced play.

Kimberley Shaw