A Haunting Night at the Baxter Theatre: The Turn of the Screw

Last night, we were transported into the eerie and suspenseful world of Benjamin Britten's The Turn of the Screw at the Baxter Theatre. Presented by Opera UCT, this masterpiece seamlessly blended drama and music, delivering a chilling narrative that left the audience captivated from the first note to the final curtain.

The story follows a young governess, portrayed with remarkable intensity by Molly Dzangare, as she takes on the daunting task of caring for two children in a secluded country house. What begins as a quiet duty spirals into a psychological battle against ghostly apparitions and strange behaviour from the children. The apparitions, revealed to be the deceased Miss Jessel and Peter Quint, were hauntingly brought to life by Karabo Rabaloi and Vuyisa Xipu. Their spectral presence added an unsettling layer to the narrative, masterfully enhanced by Britten’s evocative score.

Guided by the exceptional Harriet Taylor, an American stage director fresh from her residency at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and British Movement Director Scott Howland, the production was visually and emotionally striking. The movements of the cast captured the essence of dread and suspense, pulling the audience deeper into the story’s unsettling atmosphere. Jeremy Silver conducted the Opera UCT Chamber Orchestra with precision, ensuring that every note heightened the tension. The synergy between the musicians and singers was extraordinary, with each element enhancing the other to create an immersive theatrical experience.

The cast delivered powerhouse performances, each bringing depth and nuance to their roles. Molly Dzangare’s portrayal of the Governess was both vulnerable and resilient, capturing the character’s growing paranoia. Siphosihle Letsoso and Onalenna Maelane, as Flora and Miles, added an eerie innocence, leaving the audience questioning their true intentions. Nica Reinke’s Mrs Grose provided a grounded, emotional anchor amidst the chaos. The alternating casts across performances promise fresh interpretations of the same chilling tale, showcasing the breadth of talent within Opera UCT.

The production’s accessibility deserves applause. Sung in English, with captions in both English and isiXhosa, it ensured a broader audience could appreciate the intricate layers of Britten's work. The inclusion of isiXhosa captions added a local touch that resonated deeply with the diverse audience.

'The Turn of the Screw' runs until Saturday, 23 November, and promises an unforgettable night of suspense, drama, and extraordinary music. Tickets are available at the Box Office, with showtimes perfectly scheduled to fit an evening outing. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this production is a must-see. Be prepared to be spellbound, chilled, and utterly moved by a performance that confronts the fragile boundary between innocence and corruption. Secure your tickets now and experience a haunting night at the Baxter Theatre, you won’t regret it.