Going Home

It was a pleasure to join Washington Theatre Group for their production of Going Home by Alan Plater.  A lovely look back in the history of Tyneside in a play of two acts.  Plater was born in Jarrow in 1935 and the local knowledge and nostalgia through his work very much shone through in the script.

The main character “Bob” who emigrated 30 years earlier from Tyneside to Australia and comes back for a short visit was played very well by Peter Wilson, who’s dedication to the script was admirable given the huge number of lines he had memorised!  His delivery was clear and concise, stage presence and use of space very well done and believable connecting with the script well.  Mary his sister was played well by Christine Jary and her husband Ralph by Andrew Molloy.  Barry Hogan supported well as the Father/Harry/Writer, with Joanne Chard playing Sheila, John Appleton playing Kenny, Pamela Elliot playing Mother/Liz and the lads being played by Danny Stones and Nigel Judson.

The set was simple and projections were used to help set the scene especially those which were international.  Cast helped to make the scene changes seamless and smooth taking us between the scenes in the script.  I especially liked the historical references in the script, especially the comparisons between the Tyne and Sydney bridges.  Bob’s struggle to accept the changes which have taken place back home on Tyneside during his 30 years away, with family, friends, his local haunts and memories were poignant to discover with him and watch him grappling with adapting to the change.

There was some lovely moments in the script, some great humour although at times the pace of the writing was a little slow.  The dreamtime references were lovely though I wasn’t entirely clear if the ending was a reality or another dreamtime!  I’m hoping for reality and that Bob and Sheila found their happiness and Ralph completed his bald headed football team.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.