New Writings The Shorts.

Each year, the Dylis Guite Players organise and facilitate the performance of new work and support new and inspirational writers, directors and talented actors.

These ten short plays now brought to the stage showcase a clever variety of styles and subjects, from comedy and murder through to love stories and philosophy. Using minimal props, lighting and sound effects, the scenes seamlessly transition from one to another, moved either by the stage crew or the cast themselves. Fifteen experienced and confident actors took part, and they excelled in a diverse range of characterisations and subjects across the series of plays. The works were delivered with the correct amount of pace, interpretations and understanding of the characters being played. Great performances from everyone.

Briefly, the writings consisted of:

The Prophecy of Bool Shy-et by James Valentine 

Directed by Hannah Pamplin

Two fairies, River (Kate Spivey) and Gully (Catherine Newsome) are enjoying life in their garden when a mysterious young woman, Cassie (Sakura Singh Corke), appears. They quickly decide that she is the Chosen One to fight off the evil wizard tormenting their lives. A great piece of comedy and we enjoyed watching the fairies skipping.

Greyest Swan by Adam Follett        

Directed by Maen Gallagher

Set in the 1950s, the narrative begins with George (James Valentine) in a restaurant having a meal served by a cautious waiter, Lawrence (Simon Naylor). However, the story quickly reveals a more complex, and misleading, reality and explores the difficult life of George, whose homosexuality was deemed criminal during that era. Following an altercation with the police, George admits to committing murder, leading to his imprisonment and pending execution. The suspense throughout the story was exceptionally well-crafted.

Two Can Play At That Game by Caitlin Lloyd     

Directed by Emma Miles

A computer scammer, Alex (Kate Spivey), tries to convince Brenda (Sue Burgess) that her computer has a virus and that she needs access to Brenda’s computer to fix it.  However, Alex has met her match, and Brenda does all the controlling and wins the day. Three cheers for Brenda.

The Walkley Murder  Nigel Turner

Directed by Luke Mosley

Based on true events around the 1923 Walkley Murder, this story depicts a tough era with men returning from war and finding scarce employment, while women struggle to maintain family life. Jack Eastwood (Ben Sanderson) leaves Ethel Eastwood (Daisy Frossard) for Mildred Parramore (Sakura Singh Corke), leading to accusations that Ethel is having an affair with Jack’s friend, John Clarke (Simon Naylor). The tale culminates in Jack murdering John - exceptional performances from the actors.

Naughty But Nice by Helen Swift      

Directed by Nigel Turner

Susan (Virginia Grainger) wants a cup of tea and a piece of cake, while Chris (Phil Eardley) prefers just a cup of tea. The shop seems to be owned by the grim reaper and the story portrays a couple who do not seem to get along well, and argue over a choice of cake. Death (Phil Claxton) arrives when Chris dies from choking on a piece of cake and Susan also doesn’t see another day. A twist at the end of the piece, which no-one saw coming. Brilliant.

Done Up Like A Kipper by Sean Webster     

Directed by Ben Sanderson

Set during the 1984 miners' strike, the story follows teenager Julie (Bernadette Dales) who joins her father on the picket line. The narrative explores Julie's struggle to understand how her family can survive with limited money and if the strike will ever end. Bernadette excels in this role, delivering extensive dialogue that brings Julie's character to life. A brilliant performance.

Split by Lucy Singer      

Directed by Phil Eardley

How often does this occur? – the question of whose turn it is to pay for a meal at a restaurant. Two couples, bickering sisters (Julie Girdham and Daisy Frossard) and Man (James Valentine) and a very successful Female (Emily Allan), argue between themselves. With changing of lights from one table to the next this piece of humorous dialogue was very smooth.

Mr Baxter’s Bookshop by Brad and Nick Tait   

Directed by Lee Moore

Mr Baxter (Phil Claxton) is fixed in his ways and determined not to move out of his shop

to make way for a shopping mall. Next door is a cake shop owned by Hope Brown (Catherine Newsome) who for many years has brought cakes to share with Mr Baxter. Little does he realize that she loves him dearly and wants to spend her life with him.A beautifully written romantic story.

Waiting Room by Ken Preuss                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Directed by Simon Naylor  

Sami (Deborah Hewett) is in a waiting room, anticipating a job interview for a position involving working in "A Waiting Room," but with a unique twist. Quade (Virginia Grainger) oversees the time people must wait to be served, or for a train to arrive, and so on. With a press of a button on her computer, Quade can expedite these processes. However, her own life remains at a standstill, which Sami may help to progress.

Have A Seat by Cherielyn Ferguson

Directed by Lee Moore 

Two characters, Actor A (Phil Eardley) and Actor B (Julie Girdham), are waiting to be auditioned, but how can you act in front of a park bench? However, the two characters perform various scenarios, and they certainly left an impression. Plenty can happen in front of a bench. 

Producer Nigel Turner, along with a skilled technical and backstage team, ensured that these ten dramas progressed smoothly. A very entertaining evening and well appreciated by the audience.

Thank you for the invite, and as always, the warm welcome and hospitality.

Sue Cox - Drama Rep Region 14

NODA N.E.

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