Show has right mix of experience, talent
It was heartening to see an almost full house at the opening night of Time of my Life, the first production for 2017 at the Gaslight Theatre.
Written by prolific English playwright Alan Aychbourn who has over 80 plays to his credit, this production was directed by Steve Grounds an experienced actor and director.
Steve had to meld a cast that ranged from relative newcomers to the vastly experienced, many of whom were strangers to the Gaslight and Cambridge audiences.
The setting for the entire play was a local restaurant that has been the favourite of the Stratton family for many years.
Review
Play: Time of my Life. Directed by: Steve Grounds. Where: Gaslight Theatre, Cambridge. Reviewed by: Nancy Davies. When: March 22-April 1. Website for times and tickets: .eventfinda.co.nz
The actors did a credible portrayal of the characters.
There was Laura ‘‘don’t remind me I am 54’’ birthday girl who was never short of an opinion; Gerry her down to earth husband; Adam the ‘‘not 24 until October’’ younger son who is a disappointment to his parents for his lack of maturity, career direction and his taste in unsuitable girlfriends, Maureen being the latest.
Then there was Glyn the favoured elder son who is in business with his father and Adam’s wife Stephanie who is covering up for their crumbling marriage.
Later when it all gets too much for her she does the best bout of crying I have ever seen on stage.
There are several sub-scenes that give us an insight to events leading up this evening and even events which will take place in the future.
By popular applause the winning envelope must go to Arno Minnema, a skilled performer on both television and the stage played Calvinu and Tuto and Aggi and Dinka. And Bengie.
His perfect timing and outstanding change of character kept the play together.
The envelope for best newcomer goes to Matt Silvester who played the part of Glyn so well.
He took his character from a confident suited businessman to one in a checked shirt, broken marriage and a business in tatters.
Matt’s stage future is assured.