Talking Heads

A Lady of Letters

Irene Ruddick is an opinionated, compulsive letter writer who likes to keep a close eye on neighbours and officials and is happy to make a complaint wherever she perceives an issue. This ultimately leads to her imprisonment, but with it a feeling of freedom and real happiness for the first time.

The set was excellent with a net curtained window, a comfy armchair and a small writing desk. Irene Ruddock was a well-rounded character who came across with confidence. The soft lilting northern accent worked well, as did the costume and makeup. This was well directed with the lights going down and music playing to allow the character to move slowly to another part of the room. This provided just enough variation to keep interest as Irene Ruddick slowly revealed the comings and goings of her neighbours and her own thoughts and ideas. All in all a very impressive portrayal of the character, with the lengthy dialogue recounted with ease.

A Chip in the Sugar

Graham Whittaker is a mild-mannered man who still lives with his mother. When she reunites with an old flame, Mr Turnbull, his comfortable life is threatened. That is until he is able to triumphantly reveal Mr Turnbull’s secret and return the status quo.

The set was, again, just enough to add interest. With a small bed, a window and a chair. Graham Whittaker also had a soft Northern accent which worked well for this witty dialogue. Graham had a nice lilt to his voice and delivered the humour of the piece particularly well. Originally played by Alan Bennet himself, his portrayal had a similar dry delivery without being an imitation.

Bed Among the Lentils

Susan is a nervous, alcoholic vicars’ wife, who starts an affair with a young grocer where she buys her alcohol.

Susan was a huge contrast to the two previous monologues, speaking in a very convincing upper class English accent.  The set had a table and chairs, a drinks trolley and a large cross in the middle which dominated the space. Susan was very intense initially, but this made her unravelling all the more compelling. The dialogue was very droll which really brought out the humour, despite the serious subject matter. This was a very absorbing monologue; Susan’s social standing contrasting with her quite outrageous actions as she begins her affair with the shopkeeper. Her observations of her husband’s doting parishioners were particular hilarious and delivered with an earnestness which made it all the funnier.

An evening of Monologues obviously relies on terrific actors, however brilliantly they may be written. Luckily that was exactly what we got with these fine portrayals.  All three were word perfect, well observed characterisations delivered with confidence. It was an absorbing and thought-provoking evening which I enjoyed immensely.  Very well done to all involved.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.