Duets

‘Duets’ by Peter Quilter is a set of four comical scenarios which are all linked together by the same theme of love. This said all four sections of this production have a very different angle on this theme and each duo of characters. In each of the four parts they bring their own trials and tribulations on the matter. The modern comedy within this play, due to its contemporary issues, is very much appreciated by the audience as it is easy to connect with the content. The play contains sections to do with blind dating and hoping to get it right this time even though they’ve never got it right before, A gay man’s female friend who doesn't see his sexuality as a reason to stop trying,  a couple who are going through a divorce and decided to still go on holiday together. The atmosphere and copious amount of cocktails seem to get the better of them both and a pre-ceremony chat, which involves a lot of misfortune between a disapproving brother and a lady who is trying marriage for the third time. These four plots go together very nicely to form this hilarious play and never is there a dull moment throughout this whole performance due to the captivating script.

Blackburn Drama Club proved more than capable of bringing Peter Quilter's work alive when they staged this play. The set for the play looked very simple from the outset with three on stage trucks and a sofa. This was then brought alive with the opening music where the cast of eight themselves, dressed the set ready for the first of the four sections of this play. When we say dressed we mean skilfully and completely choreographed and stylised. The cast created a lived in looking home from the initially plain set. Inbetween all scenes these slick scene changes happened every time which were covered by topical songs. The set design must be acknowledged, as it was robust, easily and quietly moveable, with superb props and dressing. The use of colour themes to show a different location, which complimented the costumes of the two characters in that scene were clearly well thought through and appreciated throughout.

Once again Blackburn Drama Club has cast to perfection, with each member of the cast playing a believable role with interesting and just characterisations. All cast members maintained their character from the initial stage setting all the way through to the walking off after the bows.

The directorship and cast should also be commended for their spot on comedy timing and for pacing the whole show very well. No dialogue was missed throughout the whole show and the diction of all the cast was superb. This was extremely important in this show due to the amount of jokes and one liners, as if any words were missed the comedy value would be lost.

Overall the society should be proud of kick starting their 71st season with such a fantastic and enjoyable production. We look forward to seeing their next production of Habeas Corpus later this year.

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