A Different Way to Die/Tagged

Two brilliantly directed and acted, these plays could not have been more different-they were worlds apart.

A Different Way to Die, written by Lynn Brinkley was probably to an audience who had not seen or heard of this play a complete surprise in content, and a play which kept the audience at the Manifest Theatre enthralled in watching and  hearing the unfolding drama.

Four actors in this production all so involved and honest in their portrayal of each character,

Anna Gruber played by the very talented Amanda Rowe, put her heart and soul into this character. A really deep feeling also in the meeting with Dr Feldmann played so well by Nigel Rowe, both responding to the other with perfect timing. One doubting for a start the true identity of Anna, but heart breaking in it’s eventual honesty and truth which was unbearable for Anna to reveal.

Lea Friend as Magda an assistant to Dr Feldmann, a harsh guard in this scene, did so well and listening to the unfolding story was eventually compelled to speak her mind.

Mike Johansen as Joseph Gruber made a brief appearance at the very end of the play and the conclusion was also one to tear at the heart strings with so much emotion between Joseph and Anna.Rarely have I felt so moved by a One Act Play.It was an experience to remember and think on.Directed so sensitively by Jan Watkins.Terrific !!

“Tagged” the second play was a total contrast  and brought us back very much to today with all the angst of Youth verses Parents/Grandparents.

Ben Maytham as the errant grandson Matt gets full marks for a terrific interpretation of a young lad having to put up with being “tagged” as a result of some naughtiness, and was having to look after Grandad whilst his Mum Jo was working.

Martin Rayner as Grandad was really amusing and gave us a real life old timer, not understanding the workings of Facebook, Twitter and the like.

The banter between Matt and Grandad was so real, especially at Grandad’s put down at high tec, albeit with his limited knowledge of the workings, but in fact making some senior citizen comments which rather tied up Matt with exploding explanations.

Completing the cast was June Wheeler as Jo daughter of Grandad, and Mother to Matt. Jo had left strict instructions on the care of Grandad to Matt but it  was not too long before Matt was indulging Grandad with the odd beer.

It was so natural with the dialogue from all three it really felt like we were in Grandad’s sitting room in Manningtree where the action was taking place.

I laughed so much at this play-it was hilarious  and written by a local playwright  Griff Scott. Please can we have some more like this?

Directed by Alan Wheeler who played the part of Grandad in 2015 at the Headgate Theatre. This play won the over 21 category winner in the playwright competition.

Well done Alan on I believe your debut as a director and well done for the sets, lighting  and an evening of such contrast which I enjoyed very much.

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