Our Day Out

After not seeing this play for approximately 15 years, I wanted to assess whether the themes of educational conflict and social mobility remain relevant in 2025. The play, written by Willy Russell in 1977 originally for the BBC and later adapted for the stage. Its ongoing appeal can be attributed to its thoughtful writing and the balanced way it presents its themes. Avoiding "bully-minded liberalism," opting instead for engaging entertainment. Thiswas an ensemble production in which most of the cast remained onstage throughout the play, it allowed for the development of relationships and a visible group dynamic among the cast members. According to the directors' notes, Our Day Outprovides opportunities to explore elements such as humour, emotional depth, and social themes through accessible storytelling.

Russell’s theme of education is explored and persuasively argued via two opposing ideological viewpoints championed by Ben Smith as true disciplinarian Mr Briggs and Amelia Webster as the more relaxed Mrs Kay. Actors bring intelligence and truthfulness to the roles, we empathise with both characters, there are no straightforward heroes or villains in this complex text.However, there was undoubtedly a clear favourite for the kids. The dialogue from both Amelia and Ben really bought back memories from my own school days, proving once again, nothing really changes in an educational environment.

With so many roles the production created an opportunity for a large number of young actors to create convincing characters.For some the opportunity of the day trip was an exciting adventure and for others, disinterest.All of the young actors deserve huge credit for their performances. Hannah Amelia Richards as Linda and Francesca Reid as Tiffany. The lads also gave characterful performances, smoker Reilly played by Antonio Pinheiro, Kevin, Diggaand Andrews played by Toby Clarke, Charlie Andrews and Jack Shelton-Thompson respectively. Not forgetting Molly Dearing as the vulnerable and sensitive Carol.Jasmine Dobo as Karen and Isabella Wheatley played Charlotte. Other notable performances were from Sunil Bagrias Sunny and Olivia Cunningham as Susan.There was humoura plenty from Bus driver Alex Brown (falling completely on deaf ears where the kids were concerned). The remaining cast being the Head mistress/Mrs Roberts, Ruth Jones with Becky Young and Ernie Boxallas Zookeepers/John/Les/Mac all had a role to play.

Nicky Main and Bev Avis-Dakin’s direction and vision would appear to be,smart simplicity. The buswas designed and built for reuse, wooden box’s that also then transformed to make the different locations. Additional music ensured the scenes had space for clarity. The overall effect understated but worked really well. Congratulationsto all concerned especially on this occasion to those unseenhero’s doing their upmost, often behind the scenes, the creative team, whose expertise at The Priory Theatre is always second to none.

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