REVIEW: Bonaventure

Richmond Theatre production. October 1950

Character: Willy Pentridge

The action of the play takes place in the Convent of Our Lady of Rheims; a French Nursing Order, at Denzil St David, and in a village some miles from Norwich, England. It’s 1947.

ACT I: The Great Hall of the Convent, around 6pm.

ACT II

• Scene 1: Sister Mary’s Room, two hours later
• Scene 2: The same, next evening 

ACT III

• Scene 1: The same, next afternoon
• Scene 2: The Great Hall, three hours later

The Story

Bonaventure, Charlotte Hastings’ acclaimed post-war mystery, is a multi-layered production that functions simultaneously as a murder mystery, a study of faith under pressure, a suspense thriller, and a compassionate examination of individuals trapped by circumstances beyond their control. Set against the backdrop of the devastating East Anglian floods of 1947, the play takes place within a convent nursing home isolated from the outside world. The arrival of prison officials escorting Sarat Carn – a young woman condemned to hang for the murder of her brother – triggers a chain of events that gradually expose hidden truths and challenge long-held assumptions. Central to the narrative is Sister Mary Bonaventure’s conviction that Sarat is innocent, despite the legal verdict already rendered.

While the plot may initially appear straightforward – following the classic detective trope of identifying a culprit before time expires – Hastings elevates the material through a keen focus on character and moral conflict. Consequently, the audience becomes invested not only in the resolution of the crime but in the broader question of whether justice will prevail.

The setting is integral to the play’s success. The convent provides an atmosphere of calm and spirituality that contrasts sharply with Sarat Carn’s emotional turmoil and the looming threat of her execution. This isolation is intensified by the surrounding floodwaters; although the play lacks dramatic chases or violence, there is a constant, palpable sense of urgency. The confined environment also creates a feeling of claustrophobia, forcing the characters to confront one another and the truths they would prefer to avoid.

The heart of the drama lies in Sister Mary Bonaventure. She is a compelling heroine whose strength is derived from moral certainty rather than institutional power. Possessing wisdom and an unshakeable belief in justice, Bonaventure refuses to accept a guilty verdict simply because it was delivered by a court. Her determination to secure another chance for Sarat drives the narrative. In a lesser work, such a figure might seem overly sentimental, but Hastings provides Bonaventure with enough intelligence and humanity to remain entirely believable.

Modern audiences often view Willy as one of the play’s most complex roles. Recent production reviews have noted his portrayal as an autistic man, highlighting how his character exists somewhat apart from the social conventions influencing others. While those around him become entangled in prejudice and misunderstanding, Willy often perceives situations with a clarity that others lack.

There is a poignant quality to Willy’s characterisation; he is vulnerable yet observant. Hastings treats him with notable sympathy, granting him moments of genuine dignity. Rather than utilizing him for mere comic relief, Hastings ensures that Willy remains an integral part of the dramatic fabric, contributing significantly to the play’s most emotionally resonant moments.

Willy’s presence reinforces a central theme: the danger of judging individuals by appearances. Throughout the play, assumptions repeatedly prove unreliable. Sarat is assumed guilty due to her conviction, and Willy is underestimated because of his social position and personal traits. Through this, Hastings demonstrates that truth is often more complex than it first appears, reminding the audience that insight can come from unexpected sources.

The relationships between Willy and the other inhabitants are equally revealing. The varying levels of patience and understanding shown toward him allow Hastings to quietly explore themes of compassion and acceptance.

The mystery itself is skilfully constructed. Hastings plants clues carefully while maintaining an atmosphere of uncertainty. The ultimate revelation is satisfying because it emerges naturally from the preceding events rather than relying on improbable twists. This is supported by the play’s strong dialogue, which is clear, intelligent, and distinctive, revealing personality and advancing the plot simultaneously.

Perhaps the play’s greatest achievement is its balance of suspense and moral inquiry. Beneath the mystery lies a serious examination of justice, mercy, and personal responsibility. Sister Bonaventure’s quest to save Sarat becomes a defence of fundamental human dignity, inviting the audience to question whether legal judgments are always correct.

Ultimately, Bonaventure is a richly rewarding drama. Its compelling mystery, atmospheric setting, and thoughtful themes create a powerful theatrical experience. While Sister Bonaventure provides the moral centre, Willy Pentridge adds a layer of emotional depth that transforms the work from a simple thriller into a profoundly human story. More than seventy years after its debut, Bonaventure remains an engrossing work that speaks to the importance of looking beyond first impressions.