ALL BY MYSELF and ALL BY THEMSELVES

What a fun evening’s entertainment in the open air, the weather was kind to us, breezy but sunny.  I always enjoy Breakaway’s productions at this venue, being outside adds something to the upbeat feel of the production.

The plays were hilarious, and suited the venue, where we got the feel of the castaways on an island, which we eventually discovered wasn’t an island, but a peninsula, so their 7/8 years all alone, could have been solved by just walking a little further round the perimeter, such a simple concept, but enormous fun.

The minimalistic set worked well, and encompassed all the necessary settings, the rock and the raft, nicely suggested. 

Costumes were well thought out, encompassing pirates, castaways and everything in between, the cast looked comfortable in what they were wearing.

The Director had managed the entrances and exits well, with good sound effects and relevant music.  Pace throughout was good.

Larry the main castaway was played with energy by Malcolm Coakley, the concept of being Larry the Loner, but then not liking the company, was open for so many amusing asides and pointed remarks.  A good character, who was the central character.

Maude Collins Pallett was Pemberton, depicted by costume as the captain of a ship, a very good performer with crisp delivery.

Elaine Hartless was Ashworth E with Paul Murphy as Ashworth P, supposedly identical twins…… very funny and good portrayals.

Miller, another ship’s officer, was well-played by Ruth Ling, upholding the law of the group.

Zara Gooder as a very lively Nicholson in pirate attire, creating a very different and full-on character, a good foil to the other cast members.  I liked her eating the boat, very good.

Sam Newgrosh was the very sunny Webley, creating a very energetic and jolly  individual with a broad but understandable Irish accent.

The final person was Joanne Page as Henrietta the Hermit, a very laid back portrayal, again a good foil to the other characters.  I enjoyed the part about the coffin and measuring etc.

All in all two very funny plays.  I understand the writer came to see the plays and hope he enjoyed them as much as I did.

My thanks to Breakaway for their continued support and hospitality, it was lovely to catch up with so many of you.

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