Social Climbers delivers the satisfaction of a long trek
I felt I had been on a hike myself by the time New Plymouth Little Theatre’s current production Social Climbers concluded.
Like on any tramp, there are definitely highs and lows as this wellknown Roger Hall comedy unfolds. Initially, I felt some trepidation for the actresses. As the play opens, it seems to take quite some time for them to get into a rhythm. Rather than take giant strides in the opening scene, they appear to be lacking confidence and tip-toeing around one another. This creates an unsettling awkwardness among them.
I began to think the audience would be in for a long, hard slog.
However, I then realised it was probably intentional as this onstage group are meant to be colleagues from a school who don’t usually hang out together.
They are actually feeling their way with one another. Although it makes for a sluggish beginning we soon warm up to their individual personalities and became engrossed in each of their stories.
When Kim Carr bursts onto the stage as the flamboyant Maxine, it is like a breath of fresh air. Unused to tramping, she is equipped with her makeup bag, an umbrella, wine and plenty of attitude. Bold, brassy and saying what she thinks, often at the expense of others' feelings, she adds a zing of energy to the flagging start and shows a lot of talent. She is accompanied by Rhiannon Mcgrane (as Sinead), who also quickly becomes a favourite with her superb acting and facial expressions.
The characters’ personalities become clearer and you realise that director Steve Wright has actually cast each of them exceptionally well.
I had been fooled by the play’s start and was now able to enjoy some great acting by the entire all-woman cast.
Catherine Gabites is the ageing, soon to be redundant well-loved teacher.
Her cheekiness is a delight to see as it gradually emerges.
Kate Hansen plays the role of school counsellor. Her monologue, describing the often forgotten hardships of her job, is very moving and thought-provoking.
Nichola Lobban, as Emily, is the type of person who has been a doormat all her life.
Her children give her lots of worry and concerns. Her daughter Sinead (Rhiannon Mcgrane) has begrudgingly accompanied her on this 3-day hike. Meanwhile, quiet and sensitive Susan is played very well by Kelly Moore.
She is often the brunt of Maxine’s snide remarks until she finally cracks and it is revealed that all is not well in Susan’s supposedly perfect world.
Social Climbers is the sort of play I would describe as an oldie but a goodie. It continues its season until April 20.