ROLEPLAY

The third of a trilogy of comedy plays called ‘Damsels in Distress’ this piece drew the crowds into the Memorial Hall every Tuesday during the summer tourist season. This is a true commitment and the whole company must be congratulated on their dedication.

Roleplay was set in an apartment in the Docklands and I was most impressed with the design and set construction. Justin Lazenby a software designer and fiancé Julie-Ann Jobson were due to celebrate their engagement with a super dinner for the in-laws. Justin played by Rhys Westlake brought out the nervousness of the occasion meeting his future in-laws for the first time whilst Julie-Ann, Hannah Westlake, strived tirelessly to make the evening just perfect with everything going like clockwork. This couple, husband and wife in real life, were onstage for long periods during the play and carried their roles off without hesitation, maintaining their characters throughout, well done.

Paige Petite, an ex-dancer, played by Bryony Green, is kept virtual ‘prisoner’ in the flat above by her viscous boyfriend. Trying to escape her ex-boxer minder, Micky Rale, portrayed convincingly by Dave Hillman, Paige lands on Justin’s balcony and won’t leave Justin’s apartment. It was evident that Bryony, thoroughly enjoyed this role taking every opportunity of displaying her talents as a dancer, whilst doing everything to escape from her Minder. Brilliant performances from Paul Dunn and Kate Parry as Julie-Ann’s ‘definitely not trendy’ parents, Derek and Dee Jobson respectively. Paul & Kate are very experienced in stage craft, and the broad Lancashire accents they produced suited perfectly their characters and situations. Another polished performance from Leisha Keane as Arabella Lazenby, Justin’s mother whose partner didn’t turn up from the last pub they visited enroute! Leisha portrayed Arabella, Justin’s posh intoxicated with aplomb, yet another feather in her cap. I must at this point mention Paula Carr who alternated the role of Paige with Bryony. I have no doubt that Paula’s interpretation of the role was also well received by the audience.

On entering the hall, we received the usual very warm welcome from the Company. Credit must go to Director, Set Designer, Set Construction Team and Crew together with Lighting and Sound Technician. The Docklands apartment was perfect for the area available, with much attention paid to details. Lovely evening performed by my friends in Starlight and received by an enthusiastic audience. Congratulations, thanks and- Well Done all.

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