Fringe Festial

I was delighted to be asked to review HTC’s Fringe Festival.  Supporting new talent, by showcasing new plays, giving opportunities to aspiring directors, and encouraging people to get involved in the many aspects of theatre, sounded like a marvellous idea.

Four plays out of the many submitted were chosen and with simple staging, good acting and some inspired directing, each play was a delight to watch.

The evening opened with Joined by War.  Written and directed by Mark Edwards, the play is set in the trenches in WW1.  We listen to the hopes and dreams of the “veterans” contrasting with the eager anticipation of a young virgin soldier who can’t wait to see action. I was thoroughly absorbed by this play which was well acted and directed. The constant rumbling of gunfire in the background was very atmospheric and eerily realistic. The ending was emotional as those who lost their lives were encircled by a halo of bright light.  Very well done to all involved, including the tech team and a special mention for Zachary Smith who went ahead and performed despite being on crutches following an injury.

Sugar Pie – written by Vivian C Lermond, directed by Beth Sanderson.  Two lost souls come together at a truck stop in West Virginia.   A newly divorced trucker and a waitress connect over apple pie.  He reminisces over his mother’s sugar pie as they discover they come from the same small town in Tennessee.  This was tantalisingly short and sweet and certainly left us wanting more. A nicely acted piece with good direction.  Accents were very convincing. So, did he return the following week?  

A Dog’s Life – written by Pam Valentine, directed by Mel Richards.  Four dogs are waiting in a rehoming centre.  Each has a story to tell and one by one we learn how they came to be there. This was a lovely play with very imaginative directing.  It also required actors with the ability to see life through the eyes of a dog. From an old timer resigned to finishing his days in the centre, to a German Shepherd, a pampered Poodle and an over exuberant puppy. All were well cast and gave brilliant performances. This was a very enjoyable play incorporating a good mixture of emotions.  The end was sad but we had had a lot of laughs along the way. Congratulations to all concerned.

The Hen Party – written by Cat Quigley, directed by Helga Dove.  A bride-to-be and three friends set off for Benidorm, adorned with pink sashes and a bridal veil.  So far, so predictable.  This though is a second time around bride with friends seemingly dug up from the past.  With champagne flowing, tongues loosen as the past starts to encroach on the present.  This play may well have its serious moments but first and foremost it is a very funny adult comedy.  Well done to all

A very enjoyable and well balanced programme of plays. Thank you for inviting me along.

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.