The Dresser

The play shares the story of the role of the actor-manager prevalent from the 18th century to the middle of the 20th century.  This story is set World War II in a theatre in the English provinces where we find an embittered actor known to others as Sir who is well past his prime.  Once a performer of some renown, Sir now leads a troupe of somewhat shoddy actors in performances of Shakespeare's greatest plays.  However, when his age, anxieties and frustrations start to impact on his work we also see the impact this has on those around him.  Most notable it is the relationship with his dresser, Norman, which is the focus of the play.  Norman is unstintingly devoted to Sir and sees his role as being to hold everything; the company, the show and Sirs’ private life together as it all threatens to collapse.

The two central characters were played in this production by Simon Jennings as the Dresser and Stuart Davison as Sir.  The story is most compelling and these two actors played their parts perfectly with superb delivery of the often complicated dialogue.   They were sharp, dramatic, witty and biting with a wonderful interplay between them.  The nuances were beautifully delivered and whilst Davison as Sir rants and raves, becoming increasingly anxious, the unruffled Jennings as Norman calms his ego with exquisite one- liners.  Jennings gave a stunning performance, ever loyal and ever present, wonderfully quick and acerbic when needed and calm and practical at other times – this really was a masterclass in character acting.  His reference to this being the 227th  time Sir has played Lear demonstrated his dedication and devotion to his boss.  Jennings captured the emotion of the role and the tragic ending was given great depth by his reactions and performance.  Davison was equally impressive as the aging actor fearful of putting himself out to pasture.  His presence in every scene was commanding, even as he descended into illness and disarray.  Wonderfully imposing, threatening, charming and an incredible actor – Davison too gave a brilliant performance.

The supporting cast were excellent – Hannah Head as Her Ladyship was calm and in control. Her characters’ appeals for Sir to retire were heartfelt and compassionate.  His refusal to follow her request gave Head the opportunity to expose the years of resentment and hurt, along with regret, that had previously been hidden.   Lisa Wales as Madge was composed and confident.  Wales ensured that her unrequited love for Sir was gently evident without over-playing and her sadness at her loss in the final scene showed real depth of emotion. 

Georgina Appleyard as Irene was composed as the ‘wannabe’ and showed subtle charm to try to win over Sir, whilst also battling with Norman.  Poor Mark McKever had the unenviable task of playing, Geoffrey Thornton, a weak actor with aspirations above his ability.  McKever carried this off excellently.  Joshua Sanders was strong in the role of Mr Oxenby – wonderfully conveying his frustrations at continually being ignored.

Largely set in the dressing room, the layout had also been cleverly designed to also show the wings giving an opportunity to infer a lit stage behind the curtains.  The set, lighting, props, costumes and sound effects all came together to provide an excellent backdrop to this very strong cast of actors.  Congratulations to Gareth Dickinson for directing the play and everyone supporting the production in whatever capacity.   For those involved in the stage at whatever juncture “The Dresser” is a profound and insightful exploration of the world of theatre, but also the great lengths those involved will go to in an attempt to keep the greasepaint, spotlights and applause in their lives.  Huddersfield Thespians certainly captured that in this wonderful production.

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