Frankenstein’s Last Chance & On the Bell

Wilburton Theatre Group presented an enjoyable evening of contrasting one-act plays: a youth production of Frankenstein’s Last Chance, followed by the adult one-act production On the Bell, written by cast member David Blaikie.

The youth production offered nine young performers the opportunity to present a light-hearted version of the Frankenstein story, with some well-placed comedy woven into the narrative. This was very much an ensemble piece, with each member of the cast given a meaningful opportunity to contribute.

The set was understandably simple, particularly given the need to reset the stage during the interval for the adult production, and consisted of a bookcase and desk arrangement that rotated to suggest an exterior scene. While practical, this element might have benefited from a little more visual polish, especially given the evident commitment and preparation shown by the young cast.

The premise centred on Frankenstein’s need to create a new invention to win a prize at a science convention and raise some much needed funds. Although much of the story focused on the creation of the “creature”, who ultimately thwarted a robbery, the winning invention was, amusingly, a left-handed spoon.

The young performers did a commendable job of bringing the story to life, delivering their lines clearly and with a maturity beyond their years. Special mention should go to Joshua Morley and Elizabeth Smith as Dr and Mrs Frankenstein, both of whom demonstrated excellent diction throughout. Jack Grant also brought strong energy and presence to his dual roles as the creature and the Sergeant. It was particularly pleasing to see every cast member given the chance to participate fully and continue developing their stagecraft. Well done to all involved.

On the Bell was a warmly observed and entertaining one-act play, written by cast member David Blaikie, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a school staff room as its teachers prepared for, and endured, an Ofsted inspection. The piece was populated by a range of well-drawn characters, all performed with confidence and clear enjoyment.

Steve, played by Jon Bolderson, was the staff room’s resident cynic and a reliable source of humour, with John displaying excellent comic timing throughout. Andy, played by the playwright himself, was similarly world-weary and caught up in a secret affair with Claire, the science teacher, played by Charlotte Dockerty. Charlotte gave a strong characterisation of someone determined to do everything by the book, providing an effective contrast to those colleagues who had clearly lost much of their faith in the system.

Barbara, the music teacher, played by Nicole Drury, was a wonderfully chaotic presence: permanently stressed, her personal life seemingly unravelling, and forever carrying musical instruments from one classroom to the next. This became an effective visual metaphor for the disorder surrounding her character. Nicole played the role with great commitment and warmth. Paula, played by Alyssia Radford, brought lively interactions as the PE teacher and deputy who was not entirely committed to the rules herself. Margaret, played by Mary Wade, was the school principal, desperately trying to rally the staff and steer the school successfully through the inspection.

Completing the staff room was the delightful Sally, the art teacher, played by Gemma Crossland. Though not the most verbally prominent role, Gemma made a memorable contribution through excellent physical comedy, from yoga poses during the headteacher’s address to modelling a rather suggestive clay sculpture during the Ofsted feedback.

The play moved neatly from one staff break to another over the course of a couple of days, allowing the audience quickly to warm to the characters and to the growing sense of desperation as the staff attempted to maintain discipline and present the school at its best. It was a well-written and very relatable piece, likely to resonate both with those who know school life first-hand and those who can readily imagine what might unfold behind the staff room door.

Congratulations to everyone involved. On the Bell was a very successful one-act play, and I would strongly encourage its writer to consider publishing it, as I am sure other groups would enjoy the opportunity to perform it.

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