Spitfire Girls
Darlington Hippodrome
29th May 2025
Every so often I get the opportunity to review a production about which I know absolutely nothing and Spitfire Girls was one of those times. I have a rule when these chances come around which is not to look it up so that I may see it with fresh eyes, as it were.
Over the years, I have reviewed all manner of theatrical pieces in theatres and performance spaces from the cosy and intimate to the enormous and jolly grateful I am to be invited. This evening was, however, a first. Spitfire Girls at Darlington Hippodrome was not only written but also performed by Katherine Senior alongside a very talented cast. (The role of Bet is shared with Rosalind Steele who continues the run at Darlington Hippodrome)
This was not the only thing almost unique about this production. As the audience take their seats, they look upon the stage to precisely nothing save for a little atmospheric theatrical haze. As you watch this wonderfully crafted and performed play, you come to realise that there is a reason for every action, every word, every beat. It is a masterclass of writing, staging, directing and choreography.
The story itself is, on the face of it, quite simple. Two sisters, Bett (Katherine Senior) and Dotty (Laura Matthews) have applied to assist the war effort by joining the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA), a civilian organisation formed at the start of World War II and much to the chagrin of their father (Jack Hulland). They are both accepted and we are taken through their training and exploits as they transport many different aircraft to where they are needed. Neither sister, at the time of application, has any flying experience whatsoever which makes their heroics all the more miraculous and courageous.
This is not, however, where the story starts. As the stage is carefully set for the beginning by the incredibly hard working cast, we are informed that the date is 31st December, the year is 1959 and the clock is just about to strike midnight.
There is a love story interwoven into the narrative which involves both sisters and a dashing pilot called Tom (Samuel Tracy) and the inevitable camaraderie of in the mess room is provided when we meet Jimmy (also Samuel Tracy) and the no nonsense and good time girl Joy (Kirsty Cox.)
I am sure that in the devising of this remarkable play there were some significant challenges to overcome. The manner in which this challenges have been negotiated and dealt with in this production aligns beautifully with the courage and bravery shown by the characters therein. There are scenes which depict the training regime and also the flights which as simply breathtaking in their intricacy. The choreography (Stephen Moynihan) is outstanding and as I mentioned earlier, there is a reason for look, word and even the incredible slick scene changes add to the whole piece.
I often talk about ensemble pieces and, for the most part I am talking about the cast. Spitfire Girls is an ensemble piece that involves absolutely everybody. The design (Sarah Beaton) is exquisite, the lighting design (Peter Small) is a revelation and the music and sound design (Eamonn O’Dwyer) really captures the essence of the period and some of the choices drive the emotion of the piece brilliantly.
Seán Aydon’s direction is another masterclass in attention to detail. It is not, perhaps, until you are walking down the street at the end of the show, that you stop in your tracks and realise why something happened which is testament to the subtle hand of direction shown.
Spitfire Girls is a celebration of bravery, skill and sacrifice. The play touches on some thorny issues which are presented in such a way as to provoke discussion and further thought. It is a timely reminder from the past of people to whom we owe so much – lest we forget.
It is a wonderful story of bravery, courage and being footloose and fancy a gin. Spitfire Girls runs at Darlington Hippodrome until 31st May.