Sitting Pretty

Amy Rosenthal`s play brings out all the foibles of everyday people`s problems, and in this production the friendship support that they get comes from being a member of the local Art Group.

Sonia Hardy gives an excellent portrayal as Nancy, who from the onset has bouts of severe depression, due to losing her job, but blossoms out to be the star model at the art studio.    Irene Thorpe, as her sister Nina, delivered a strong presentation in trying to coax her sibling to try new interests, whilst rejecting the advances of a confidence lacking Max, the next-door neighbour, quietly and convincingly played by Terry Stevenson.  David Jones as Philip, the leader of the art group and a bit of a philanderer, was admirable in trying to keep everyone along with some old flames happy, extracting some very humorous laugh lines.  Zelda, Claire Wade, was first class as the frustrated girlfriend, commanding the stage throughout.

Other good roles were played by Linda Cheshire, as Josie an old flame of Philip, with Sue Orme as Bridget, spoiling everyone with her cake making, and her husband Martin played by Martin Weston.  Majorie Haworth was delightful as  Sylvia, regaling the group with stories of her successful son,  and Adrees Hussain as the mostly silent Luka completed a very competent cast.

The production, which consisted of several fairly short scenes, was commendably directed by David Jones.

The superb set was constructed by Martin Illston, Mike Asprey, David Jones, Ric Smith, and Bob Longdon. Stage Manager and Props was by Jenny Cooper, who made the changing of scenes flawless.  Excellent lighting by Rob Snell with sound by Steve Orme.  The costumes by Claire Wade were just perfect and contributed to another good production by The Marlowes.

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