A COUNTESS BELOW STAIRS

Davina Porter's performance of this Cinderella story from the Russian Revolution is done to perfection. The listener is transported to the world of the aristocracy, with its whims and hypocrisy, and into servants' quarters, where colorful characters are running the show. Characterizations are well done, and the transitions from Russian to British accents, both Cockney and highbrow, are skillfully executed. Porter easily becomes Anna, the young countess who finds herself working as a maid after her family's emigration to England from war-torn Russia. The dialogue of a variety of characters--from butler, cook, and housekeeper to Rupert, the earl--is easy on the ears, as well as the heart. D.L.M. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 08]