Groping for Words

 “Groping for Words” written by Sue Townsend, in 1983, is a play set in a Victorian School, in Clapham, and tells the story of Joyce, an Adult Literacy teacher, Kevin, the caretaker of the school, and her two pupils: Thelma and George.  Each has their own secret and through the evening we discover how they come to terms and deal with their individual struggles.  It’s a play that says a lot: misconceptions of illiteracy, how we judge people, emphasis on first impressions, attitudes, class, homelessness and fragmented families.  All are put under the microscope as the group come together while “Groping for Words”. 

     The set was excellent and had been well crafted giving an accurate representation of a Victorian school room, complete with children’s drawings, cracks in the plaster, high ceiling and windows – impossible for children to see out of.  The stage was divided into school room and corridor/caretaker area and was practical, using the stage creatively and imaginatively.   The scene changes were efficient and speedily executed.

     There was great attention to detail in ensuring each character was appropriately dressed.   A lot of thought had gone into the use of costume and hair to emphasise the personality and class of the characters. 

     The essential characterisations of each cast member were well developed and each character maintained their persona throughout.  There were no weak links in this excellent production.   Mari Fleming’s direction was appealing and although I attended a dress rehearsal, the acting was of the highest standard; the falls and fight scenes were well rehearsed and choreographed.

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