Last of the Red Hot Lovers

Little Theatre Company have developed a good reputation for their Musical productions over the years and they are now building the same reputation for their plays.  This Neil Simon play, charts the attempts of a business man, going through his personal ‘middle age crises’ to seduce someone (anyone!) into an affair.

The script, as you would expect from the author, is outstanding; with plenty of thought provoking moments interspersed with lots of humour.  Jamie Redgate, playing the rather desperate Barney Cashman, entertains three very different ladies using his elderly mother’s apartment.  This was a master class in characterisation.  Every movement and nuance showed the angst and desperation of the man.  The final act, where the roles are reversed was beautifully performed.

Lianne Larth played the first of the ladies, Elaine, who is expecting this meeting to result in some ‘commitment free’ sex.  As the play moves, on it is clear that Barney is not ready for this, his first extra marital encounter.  Lianne’s performance was spot on, her characterisation was well balanced and displayed the neurosis and dominance that the character demanded.

A few months later sees Barney try again.  This time he is better prepared and clearly more confident in his planning.  Bobbie turns out to be a pot smoking, kooky wanna-be actress with a persecution complex.  Barney is a bit more in control but not much!  Louise Strachan played this part with great style, giving another well studied characterisation.

Finally, Barney is entertaining Jeanette, a close friend of his wife, and this is where the tables are turned.  Sarah Pettican’s performance as the angst ridden and desperately despairing housewife was excellent.  The whole scene had me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was coming next.

The scenery and costumes were spot on for the period and worked well.  With no mics, all the cast projected well enough to be heard in this small venue and the lighting was undemanding and appropriate.

Director Julian Cottee, in his directorial debut, has produced another excellent play for Little Theatre Company.  Shame the audience wasn’t larger to appreciate this excellent production.

Thank you for your hospitality during the performance, which I enjoyed immensely.

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