Key for Two

Report on

Woodland Players

Production of 

“Key For Two”

A Comedy by John Chapman and Dave Freeman

Directed by Geoff Iles

Lighting and Sound Technical Director – Tom Stone

Stage Crew – Alice Whitehead.

 

As seen by Bob Allen, NODA SW District 14 Representative 

on Saturday 1st, March, 2025

at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School, Hanham, Bristol.

PLEASE NOTE: 

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the performance in question.  The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance, and it is inevitable that his assessment will be effected by that knowledge.

The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in particular the performance viewed.  It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed.  Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other performances, and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre.

It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer will prove helpful in improving future productions.

The action takes place in the sitting-room and bedroom of Harriet’s flat in Brighton. She does not work but relies on the “house keeping” her two gentlemen visitors provide. She is their mistress as they both have wives at home. As they have strict visiting times they do not know about each other. If either one raises any objection to her bills or wants to visit out of agreed hours she blames the objections of her over- bearing Mother. The men have never met her as she does not exist. Into this well-oiled routine suddenly arrives Ann, Harriet’s old school friend, visiting from New Zealand. Then the world of Harriet starts to grumble before our eyes. 

This play had all the elements of classic farce, dashing in and out of doors, mistaken identities, bizarre plot and some very funny lines. The Director had to control the tone of the play and ensure that the actors do not “overact” and keep it looking real. The more we, the audience, believe the actors are genuine, then the funnier the surreal set-up becomes. This was true of this show as the Director had the light touch of a seasoned hand. At no time did the show appear over the top. All the fun lines were heard and enjoyed and the actions went very smoothly. This cast were well rehearsed in speech and space. Yes there were a few missed lines, but within so many! The cast used the limited space as though they had all the room in the world. I love when a group of actors work as one and these people were spot on! 

I do have a couple of things I didn’t like but they are personal. There were some very brief blackouts between scenes which were handled quickly. I would have just loved a few bars of music to cover the black out. As these changes needed cast to move or get props they could have taken longer and no audience worries if the music is heard playing. Of course this is a choice made. My other slight comment was concerning the bedroom door post downstage. I know from experience that cast always forget when they are not supposed to use their hands. Several times they would clasp the upright as they went in and out of the bedroom area. A tall narrow piece of a flat would have avoided any handling. Just small points that could ruin the wonderful effect of a set. This group provided their cast with a wonderfully built set for the play. As they perfform in a school hall everything is brought in and constructed. There is no formal stage for their use. They build this raised acting area for each and every production. All flats and supports are stored in a former garage at least a football field away from the hall. That they achieve an acting area, let alone an excellent set, is such an achievement for this small group. We have a sitting-room at the stage front with a bedroom and double bed at the rear. There is a door stage right leading to a bathroom and an open space stage left leading to a kitchen. At the rear stage right is a beaded curtain leading to the hall and other “rooms” in the flat. The set is furnished with plenty of suitable furniture, side lights and props including a well-used drinks trolley. It looked “lived” in and, I suspect, was well used in rehearsals as all the cast were familiar with the layout. 

Before I discuss each role let me extend my appreciation to all those listed in the programme who have been working to make the lead players look good and those ensuring the audience were well cared for. We all work to make our hobby enjoyable to others and long may that last.

Harriet – Liz. Congratulations on holding this role together. You started off so carefree and guiltless about what you were doing and yet by the second half we “almost” felt sorry for you as your world fell apart. This was a “tour de force” – so well done!

Gordon – Neil. I didn’t like the character at all so well done on that. I would have cheerfully left you home with the chickens. But a role well played and I think you enjoyed!

Alec – Dave.. Loved the change of vocals with this role – unless you were born with that accent. It was a good contrast to Gordon in voice and presence. Loved the fish taking the encore!

Anne – Karen.. Another strong female performance. So good a contrast to Harriet. As the play progress so you brought more comedy to the role. I love to see a lady do comedy. Great!

Richard – Robert. Best .part of the play – only a few words to learn, late arrival and falling down and sleeping! All of which you did with great aplomb!

Magda – Becky. Way would Gordon ever leave you? You must have liked the chickens more than him. Made a good job of that role Becky. Well done.

Mildred – Emily. Wonderful entrance. No fuss, no messing! Great cameo! Glad you got Alec sorted. 

Thanks to you all for my warm welcome.

I look forward to the next time

Bob Allen

NODA  South West District 14 Representative

 

N.B. The comments above are solely the view of the representative attending and only reflects the performance seen.

 

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