Model Behaviour

I was delighted to return to Kingsley Community Centre last week to see Kingsley Players Youth Theatre’s production of Model Behaviour. This production is part of the National Theatre’s Connections programme and will be produced at The Lyceum Theatre in Crewe later in the year. Following on from their successful Connections programme last year, this year’s production was, in my opinion, stronger. Directed by the young actors themselves, this piece of theatre was both captivating and thought-provoking.

Set in a traverse style within a school setting, with the audience used as other members of the school/class, this production was different to the norm. With basic lighting and sound, it didn’t need anything else. I loved the clever way in which it was set and how the audience were involved throughout. The young actors used direct address and included the audience throughout. I wonder how this style will transfer to a bigger theatre such as The Lyceum in Crewe? The clever use of flags and repetition of gags throughout meant that we were fully aware of which pupil was representing which country during their model united nations debate. One thing that I missed was more individuality of characters from all. I got the ‘sassy one’, the ‘geeky one’ etc but it would’ve been great to have seen this from all actors.

The opening scene was slightly hard to get used to as actors were constantly talking over each other. I’m not sure if this was intentional or not but it was a little distracting and felt under-rehearsed if so. However, the improvised talking with the audience was brilliant and the quick thinking from the actors and witty rapport was excellent. I have to single out Iona Anstice for this as I was next to her. Her rapport with the audience around her was outstanding!

I didn’t understand the song at the end or what reference it had to the production as it seemed to come from no-where but perhaps I missed the reference to this?

Iona Anstice played the role of Ronni and was the protagonist in this production. For me, Iona was brilliant in this role, well cast with an abundance of energy, witty repartee and storytelling!

Ellie Usher played the role of Chris. I really enjoyed Elli’s energy and really liked her character choices. I would’ve loved to have seen more of her character used throughout.

Phoebe Fraser played the role of Stevie. Whilst I lost a lot of dialogue due to poor diction and de-voicing at the end of sentences, Phoebe was suitably funny and had some brilliant one-liners throughout.

Ed Porter played the role of Katy brilliantly! They had excellent stage presence; wonderful comic timing and they made a brilliant rapport with the audience from the outset. I loved all the subtle and in your face nuances that Ed brought to this role. Fabulous!

Teigan Withey played the role of Caroline. Teigan’s diction and line delivery is very strong, and she was able to showcase some good acting and singing vocals too.

Sarah was played by Evie James. I liked her characterisations, and she had a clearly defined character role. I would’ve preferred a little more energy and stage presence but contradictorily, I liked the way in which she drew the audience in.

Kate Burge was great, as always, as Caitlin. Kate has brilliant stage presence and a confidence which makes the audience sit back, relax and know that we’re in safe hands. Another great performance from Kate. I felt that the character of Caitlin was slightly underused.

George Jenkinson played the role of Mayo. If I’m being totally honest, I wasn’t sure if Mayo was a student or a teacher. Dressed in old school dress roles, George looked like a teacher but displayed none of the characteristics of a teacher. I personally would’ve preferred either a more uptight or ‘couldn’t care less’ interpretation of this character.

Sham was played by Edith Banks and was great throughout. I liked the rapport she had with her fellow actors, and I could hear every word. I would’ve liked to have seen more originality with her character, but this is just a personal preference.

Overall, this was an entertaining night at the theatre. I really enjoyed this play and it had some great idea’s within it, including staging etc. Kingsley Players Youth Theatre constantly do things differently and no two productions are ever the same. It’s clear to see why their productions are always NODA nominated and they provide a great showcase for their youth talent – this production is another testament to that.

I thank KPYT for their hospitality and wish them all the success for their Lyceum Theatre transfer last in the year!

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