The Gut Girls

This was an intriguing play, which whilst set in our Victorian past still resonated with some very current feminist issues.

The opening scene immediately drew the audience into the main characters. The five Gut Girls were compelling from the start, each demonstrating their individual characteristics yet working together brilliantly as an ensemble.

Maggie, played by Angie Budd was immediately recognizable as the outspoken one, not afraid to voice an opinion. This was a brilliant and very strong performance. Andrea Dalton as Polly introduced humour into the group and this made her eventual demise all the more poignant. Another great performance.

Rachel Curren’s Ellen, the political voice, was a very well played and an intelligent foil for the other girls. Rachel was particularly successful in her second role as Priscilla. This was an excellent portrayal of a woman undermined. Every small gesture gave an insight into the mind of the character.

The two younger girls were very well developed characters. Kate played by Jordan Ashmore showed a natural optimism which was delightful to watch. This was a good contrast to Bethany Diggins’ naïve and anxious Annie. Bethany’s soliloquy was beautifully done.

The introduction of the aristocratic Lady Helena showed the huge gulf between the classes of the period. Bev Benham played this part with a quiet and frequently obstinate determination. A well acted portrayal of a ‘do-gooder’. Fern McLean as her long suffering and indoctrinated maid was suitably cowed.

This play is focused mainly on the female characters and the men in the cast had to be very adaptable. They all gave good characterisation to their disparate roles. Paul Macklin gave us a real music hall feel in his portrayal of Madjacko. In his role as Arthur we saw a much darker side which became gradually increasingly threatening. This was well done.

Dave Corder, as Edwin also had the opportunity to develop his character. The change, when he attacked Maggie was most convincing.

 I liked Peter Scales’ depiction of Len, the pub landlord. Managing Maggie was always going to be a difficult task. I would have liked to see him more threatening as Harry.

Gut Girls is a difficult play to stage with its many scenes but this was managed really well with lighting changes and suitable music from Peter Curtis and Roger Mannion. This ensured minimal delay in the running of the piece. The change of lighting and use of the centre aisle as an entrance also kept things moving as the audience became aware that something new was coming. Well done to the small but talented back stage team and some good direction from a young director.

The costumes were very appropriate for the period and I particularly liked the flamboyant hats.

Congratulations to Leanne, Iain and everyone in the cast for keeping the pace and energy going. This ensured focused audience attention. It was such a shame that the audience was small. The production deserved a bigger viewing.

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