Download the new logos for the programme and poster competition

Stand and Deliver

Author: Rev'd Ben Archibald : Deputising for Caroline Jervis

Information

Date
26th October 2012
Society
Bonkers Theatrical
Venue
The Masque Theatre
Type of Production
Play
Director
Mark Walker
Musical Director
N/A
Choreographer
N/A

Stand and Deliver - a modern play set in a hospital maternity ward - follows the tumultuous event of pregnancy during its final stages of four women, each typeset to represent various social /cultural strands. Nicola, played by Emma Legg, is the stereotypical blonde bimbo, whose only wish is that her child-to-be is a girl, and matches in with current house décor. Julie Paris plays Lizzie, a mother of numerous children who, one would have thought, was past the child-bearing age. Then we have Michelle, played by Rachel Compton. She’s 16, and, after a one night stand, her life seems non-existant, especially with her mother, Mrs Greenwood played by Kate Long, demanding that her child be given up for adoption. Finally, we have the typical upper-class snob, Vivien, played by Jane Walker, whose only concern is that her husband forgot to pay the private health insurance. The four main characters are supported by their partners - or in case of Michelle, her conservative mother - a highly sexed ward nurse; a boisterous, yet comical ward sister; and the ward cleaners - two callous and work-shy gossips whose only interest lies in more overtime.The hilarious goings-on in this maternity ward contained all the necessary fun for a frolicsome evening.

British comedy at its best, Director Mark Walker deserves massive applause. Laugh after laugh, the cast portrayed their characters to a T. A special ‘well done’ must be given to all four mothers-to-be, as, without their expose to the real life challenges of child birth, the play would not have held its thread. Nurse Walker also deserves a special mention. The quality of her acting skills was superb; she managed to render her character with natural ease, and she showed her great stage prowess in voice and action.

The set was built to an extremely high standard. A pat on the back to all involved. Diction could not be faulted, and props used worked well. Lighting was also well executed, and the play flowed in a continuous way synonymous with professional theatre.

Overall, a highly entertaining show solidified by a highly talented cast. I would hope that one day, Stand and Deliver will take its final ovation on a professional stage. This evening’s performance being plainly flawless, I look forward to seeing more of Mark Walker’s direction in the future.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.

Other recent show reports in the East Midlands region

Funders & Partners