A Gallery Double Bill

This was a production of two short plays, the first being The Mortuary Sisters.  Writer and director Jazz Ely says she was writing from personal experience and the piece was quite baffling  and very macabre to say the least.  I personally found it extremely challenging and uncomfortable in some places, but I think that is just what she wanted. These comments are of course my personal opinion and in no way is it a criticism of the two sisters Polly and April, played by Lottie Pook and Claire Walkinshaw.  The storyline revolves around these two sisters and their fractured relationships being rebuilt and re-established within the backdrop of their family mortuary business.  They certainly thrived in their respective roles and were totally believable, with plenty of energy and enthusiasm. 

The second play, Bully Boy written by Sandi Toksvig and directed by Helen Clarke. This again was a very challenging and uncomfortable production to watch in some places, but was absolutely redeemed by the subject matter. All credit to Sandi for giving us all a deeper understanding of the trauma these men faced, giving the audience a much deeper and real understanding of the effect of war on many of our service personal and to the many of us personally involved, a closer and more sympathetic attitude. If there was a slight criticism of the script, it seemed slightly over long as the characters and topics were well covered earlier.

What an amazing performance from Dean Wales as Major Oscar Hadley and Ben Maytham as Private Eddie Clark. Both boys gave us gripping, emotional performances, and a deeper meaning to the label ‘post-traumatic stress’,  portraying the full extent of their sad, upsetting and disturbed feelings. Two very professional performances and a brilliant piece of direction from Helen Clarke.

In the open stage setting of The Studio Theatre, with no scenery as such, lighting and props  play  an important part of setting the scene, and this was skilfully managed by Matt Meyrick  aided by Dave Borthwick in both productions, as were the necessary sound effects.

Well done again to Gallery for giving us a thought provoking evening of theatre.

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