The Herd

I was very impressed with every aspect of this play.  A sometimes controversial view of having a disabled child and the problems associated with them and the family, but a well written and well directed play, that had humour and angst.

The set was well-constructed and gave the characters room to move with freedom, whilst encompassing the needs of the play.  It was dressed nicely, and didn’t give the cast problems getting on and off the sofa, chairs etc, which was good.  I liked the attention to detail in that the window showed a view of the street, as did the doorway when opened. 

Sound was good, as was lighting, with some nice effects that enhanced the mood at the time.  The cast projected well, and Director Malcolm Hobbs kept them moving naturally about the stage.

Costumes were appropriate for the play, and looked comfortable for the actors.

I thought Jan Westgarth as the central character Carol, mother of a disabled son celebrating his 21st birthday, was excellent.  Her part was very wordy, but she delivered it with expression and fluidity, I loved her portrayal.  The bald facts of trying to cope with a Care worker who didn’t speak very good English, a Care Home manager who was patronising, and a family who loved Andy, but could see the strain it caused the other members of the family, gave Carol a myriad of emotions, which an met head on and delivered.

Julie Gough as Claire, Carol’s daughter, gave a good all round performance, showing the emotions and restrictions of trying to help her mother, but maintaining a life for herself.  The fact that Claire was pregnant, and the manner in which it came to light was well-handled by all.  I liked the relationship between Claire and Mark, her boyfriend.

Damon Pattison played Mark.  I liked his very natural approach to the part, it was an easy portrayal that blended well with the other more up front characters, but he stood out for his gentleness and all round good guy image, amongst the rather more angst-ridden members of the cast.  I am not sure I’ve come across Damon before, but hope he continues with the Society, as he is a valuable asset!

Margaret and Len Skilton as Carol’s parents, gave very astute performances, Margaret getting the ascerbic Patricia well, saying exactly what she meant, as is often the case with older people, but in a slightly quieter way, which was more telling.  Whilst Len played Brian as a really lovely father, understanding all the women in his life very well, and dealing with them all in his own special way.

The cast was completed by Robin Langer as Ian, Carol’s husband, who walked out on the family many years ago, and wanted to see his son on his 21st birthday.  This led to many funny moments, and also high drama between Carol and him, and Claire and her father.  Robin appeared to be very meek and mild to start with, but got very animated and there were some really forceful scenes between him and the women.

I liked the pace maintained throughout, and switches between emotions, which gave this play interest and dimension.

A thought-provoking play, which was of a high standard.

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