Review: Discovering John Clare


The Long Life & Great Fortune of John Clare is the latest offering from Eastern Angles. Written by Tony Ramsey, this production tells the story of a man who is convinced that he is John Clare, the poet! As his psychiatrist tries to get to the bottom of her patient’s delusions some startling stories start to emerge.

Louise-Mai-Newberry-&-Richard-Sandells-in-John-Clare-RehearsalRichard Sandells puts in a powerful and convincing performance as John. This very talented actor plays both John Clare in the eighteen hundreds and the modern day John who is battling with his own demons.

Louise Mai Newberry, as Psychiatrist Melody is brilliantly cast, her character works well with John, as she tries to work out what is causing her patient’s problems. Also playing John Clare’s wife Patty, Newberry switches from character, and century, with ease.

Henry Devas plays Melody’s yuppie partner Rafe in the modern day and Skrimshire, John Clare’s doctor in the eighteen hundreds. Rafe is preoccupied with his failing television career leaving Melody feeling abandoned and unloved.

The Long Life & Great Good Fortune of John Clare is a brilliantly powerful production that takes the audience on a journey of emotions as the Story of John Clare is explored and reveals some surprising parallels with modern day John.

The very talented cast of three all put in fantastic performances, telling this fascinating story, which is brilliantly written by Tony Ramsey, in a believable and compelling way.

The Long Life & Great Good Fortune is another must-see production from the Eastern Angles camp… Thoroughly enjoyable and very thought provoking!

The Long Life & Great Good Fortune is at various venues in the area throughout April and May, for more information and to book tickets visit www.easternangles.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01473 211498.

— WENDY COOK, IPSWICH24 —

Picture: Mike Kwasniak