THIS being the season of Halloween, NFP could not have made a better choice of play for their autumn production.

While there are neither ghouls nor ghosts in the play – although a few things do go bump in the night – it is a thriller that really does chill to the bone, and some carefully chosen mood music added to the sense of foreboding.

The cleverly-written story centres round elderly, dying author Marion Bishop and the large sum of money that will go to someone on her death.

Just who that someone will be, however, is what precipitates many of the events that occur.

Helen Davison’s production was beautifully paced, and her excellent cast did her proud.

Sonia Collyer set the standard as Marion Bishop, while company newcomer Lotte Fletcher-Jonk is clearly a great asset and gave a superb, totally natural performance as her caring neighbour Katherine Willis.

And Sam Haberfield, in what I believe was his first major role in a play, was just right as Katherine’s mentally handicapped son, Michael.

There were outstanding performances too from Sarah Haberfield (Laura Vinnecombe), Andrew Diplock (Raymond Shapley), Maureen Beven (Doris Meacham) and Alan Dester (Dr Andrew Thorne).

A frighteningly enjoyable night.