Bluebird

This is a very powerful and dramatic production, providing a glimpse into the troubled lives of many people chased by unseen demons. A brilliant piece of drama.

The story follows a night in the life of London mini-cab driver, Jimmy Macneill. At each pick up the various “fares” off-load to him all their troubles, anger and disappointment with what life has brought them. From a grieving father of a murdered girl; a bouncer who feels remorse for the violence of his colleagues; an Underground engineer who believes in transience of love; a teacher who just wants to have a child and isn’t choosy as to the father; a young girl who left home at sixteen and is ill-treated by everyone she meets; a very angry young man; a drunk and someone who just wants to get home.  Jimmy listens to their troubles and treats them with compassion and sometimes amusement. He also has a great burden to bear, the loss of his seven-year-old daughter killed in a road accident.

The six actors taking on the eleven roles of the fares” were Gary Williams, Mark Kenny, Kate Haag, Agnetha Louise Spencer, Jordan Maycock and David Stanners. They were all superb in their roles, bringing the characters to life with the correct body language and deliverance of their life stories.  A special mention for David Stanners, who took over at the beginning of the week due to Sue Burgess being taken ill.

Thomas Renshaw gave a very professional and realistic portrayal as Jimmy in all the different situations.

Performances that really stand out and dominate the second act are the two leads: Jimmy Macneill (Thomas Renshaw) and Clare Macneill (Samantha Renshaw). Jimmy hasn’t seen his wife since the death of their child and admits that he that killed their daughter while driving his car under the influence of drink. Samantha’s first-class acting went through so many emotions from grief for her lost daughter and what she has had to go through to the anger built up inside her over many years. These two actors’ feelings during this act were so palpable that you could have heard a pin drop. Amazing stuff and brilliant acting.  

An excellent director and cast is what you need to make this production a success – all expertly provided by The Dilys Guite Players. Dialogue delivery was 100%, with pauses in all the correct places making the play very realistic. Audience attention was held from start to finish.

Sam Renshaw must be congratulated on directing an excellent and very dramatic play. Sam not only directed but also designed the set, lighting, and sound with thanks to the stage crew and technical team.

Thank you so much for the invitation and warm hospitality and we look forward to your next production.

 

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