Home I'm Darling

Premiered in 2018, this dark comedy centers on married couple Judy and Johnny, who appear to be living an idealized version of 1950s domestic life: the perfect home, the perfect routine and the perfect marriage. Is it just an illusion? As time passes, cracks begin to show beneath the carefully polished surface. Judy’s mother challenges the nostalgic fantasy, revealing that life in the 1950s was far from a bed of roses and the couple are forced to confront the difference between perception and reality.

Paul Moss gives a confident performance as Johnny, bringing warmth and strong comic timing to the role. His wife Judy is played by Rachel Phillippo-Green, a very memorable and excellent performance.   Both actors show a clear connection to their characters and their rapport adds strength and understanding to the performance.

Their friend Fran, played by Ruth Ellis, gives a compelling, poignant and emotionally engaging performance. Dean Kiely plays her husband, Marcus, keeping the audience unsure whether he is simply charming and friendly or concealing a darker side. Samantha Finn is convincing as Johnny’s boss Alex, a sharp, ambitious young woman who is ruthless in her determination to succeed. Beverley Brough brings warmth and compassion to Sylvia, Judy’s mother, while also revealing her strength as she tries to show her daughter that she must face up to reality to overcome her problems.

All the costumes looked great, particularly fabulous were Judy’s numerous 1950’s style dresses with the all so important net petticoats.

The impressive box set has been lovingly created to resemble Judy and Johnny’s home, complete with authentic 1950s-style furnishings. Arranged across two levels, it includes a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, cooker and pantry, as well as a living room filled with all the period details. The props list must have been extensive, and congratulations are due to the team and the SODS set builders for bringing it all together so convincingly.

The busy set demands frequent changes, which the director handles humorously by having three young performers move scenery and props while jive dancing. The talented trio are Christopher Wallis, Henry Bates and Kira Bates. I did feel some of the static poses were a bit too long but I am assuming that was to cover costume changes.  Before the curtain goes up we also see Khaleesi Corness as the young Judy sitting at the side of the stage playing with her toys. A sweet touch to open the play.

An enjoyable and thought provoking production from these talented actors. Our thanks and congratulations go to Paul and all the team.

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