Albert Nobbs

This delightful play tells the story of Albert Nobbs’ life.  A life which has been full of hard graft, but when he reaches retirement, it isn’t at all what he expected.  He finds himself bored and nagged by his wife, Connie.  Then Albert’s life is overturned by the unexpected death of his wife and he struggles to find a reason to carry on – until Connie returns as a ghost!  She sets about organising Albert’s retirement to make it a happier one, including a spot of matchmaking with her best friend, Rose.  Despite Albert’s protestations, he begins to explore new experiences and becomes less dependent on Connie.  This play succeeds in being extremely sad and hilariously funny in equal measures.

I really loved this production.  Richard Bateman (Producer/ Director) has rehearsed this talented group of actors to deliver such self-assured, convincing performances from each of them. The result was a very professional production.

The opening scene of the play showed Connie in her bed, partially covered by a white sheet, and Albert pacing up and down.  Connie then sat up and said, “I’m dead”.  This created laughter from the audience and when it subsided, she sat up again and said, “It’s not bloody funny!”  The tone of the play was thus set. 

Steve Howland gave a show-stopping performance as Albert Nobbs.  I last saw Steve as the “best man” in “Perfect Wedding” so I was well aware of his comic timing and stage presence.  He captured the character of Albert Nobbs superbly using an array of facial expressions and mannerisms, and his ability to switch from comedy to pathos in his emotional interactions with Connie was exemplary.  His interaction with other cast members was perfect. A truly fully rounded and skilled performance.

Gill Collins who was also excellent in “Perfect Wedding”, superbly eclipsed that with her performance as Connie Nobbs, the deceased wife of Albert.  Her interactions with Albert and the other two cast members showed empathy, understanding and great authenticity.  Her characterisation and comic timing was wonderful.  She created so much of the comedy but was able to make the emotional moments with Albert, so real.  A terrific performance.

Janet Drewery took on the role of Rose, Connie’s best friend and, in Connie’s plan, the potential match for Albert.  Janet’s performance was extremely good combining the flirtatious element of the character with a natural warmth towards Albert.  She created a very believable character.

Alice was a great character!  A nosy neighbour who created some great comedy moments.  Barbara Failey took on the role with gusto.  The scene in which she had lost her teeth and later appeared wearing a borrowed set, was hilarious. (She reminded me so much of Janet Street-Porter).  Barbara really brought the character to life.

Staging/Set:  The set was a simple single sitting room throughout and was the ideal platform for this wonderful play. Congratulations to Stage Manager Nic Johnson and her team.

Sound/Lighting: The music and lighting enhanced the production very well. Well done Rob Newton.

 

Props: The props were organised by Dianne Turner and Barbara Failey .

Prompt: The prompt was Sally Morland.

Box Office/Front of House: Julie Greensides and Richard Bateman.

From the laughter throughout, the applause at the end, and the comments I heard as I was leaving, there is little doubt that this production was enjoyed by all.   Thank you for inviting me and I look forward to your next production.

 

 

 

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