Same Time Next Year

Same Time Next Year

Carlton Players

Carlton Little Theatre

11/2/26

 

Set in 1951 this story begins with Doris played by Emma Lucas and George played by J.D. Justice, waking up after a one-night stand, or at least what they assumed to be so, however that one-night turns into a twenty-four-year series of one-night stands in which Doris and George return to the same hotel annually for a weekend rendezvous. This saucy in parts, romantic comedy is based on the Broadway hit show, which was adapted to film in 1978 and the story is oddly gripping and entertaining. You are asked to push aside the deception of the affair and get to know the pair in a sympathetic way, while brushing under the carpet the damage the two are placing on their marriages.

Over the twenty plus years the characters change, on occasion quite dramatically, from dress sense and hairstyles to political ideals but as several years pass between scenes,  the actors producing a small sign on the door stating ‘Happy, 5th’  maybe should have continued in some way throught the play, explaining to the audience the reasons behind the changes.  I must mention wardrobe, Doris’s costumes were times well , as were the dapper outfits for George as they both grew their successful careers.

Their developing relationship is about so much more than sex, more about learning and groing together, after a slow start the actors grow in the respective roles. They both begin navigating the changing world, and the uncertainty of life, careers and children, but one thing remains the same that one weekend of the year they share. No matter how they may have changed, the weekend stays the same. A safe familiar retreat that the pair have grown to want and need and look forward to. It has to be said the weekend Doris arrives seven months pregnant is splendid, with George not having a clue what to do, however his love for Doris hold firm, as he produces towels and hot water a charming scene, even playing serine music on the piano in the room. A two hander is always a challenge, and Director Andrew Jolley did a good job to keep the dialogue on pace. However  I did feel  we were missing that 'special something' that would support a twenty year loving relationship , it wasn't there.  It’s a fun show and there are many giggles, Emma and JD  gave a lovely performance for their first lead roles, they needed more rehearsal time together to develop the comfortable intimacy needed in this what is a unique love story.   I think we all wondered if it would come to an abrupt end, but did it? You will have to see this play for yourself. No spoilers here. Thank you, Carlton Players this was, an entertaining piece of theatre, looking forward to the next production.

Joanne Rymer

NODA

District 4

 

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