The Memory of Water

Author: Jake Powell

Information

Date
22nd July 2023
Society
Phoenix Theatre Company CIC
Venue
Daneside Theatre
Type of Production
Play
Director
Dan Hobson & Hannah Brayford
Written By
Shelagh Stephenson

Phoenix Theatre Company were back at the Daneside with their production of Shelagh Stephenson’s ‘The Memory of Water’, directed by Dan Hobson and Hannah Brayford. There was a static set depicting a bedroom, which was suitably furnished, with a bed centre, vanity table stage left and a wardrobe stage right. The added features like the wheelchair and toilet aid, really made you feel like you were in an elderly person’s bedroom – some good attention to detail. Each character was costumed well, adding to the individuality of each character, for example Teresa in hippie clothes reflecting her job and Catherine’s costumes reflecting her wild child nature. Although starting a bit tentatively, the pace certainly picked up during the production. Through their direction, Dan and Hannah were able to take the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions, from the fun of the sisters trying on their mother’s clothes to the moment that Mary found out about her son. Projection from the cast was good with every word able to be heard.

The technical elements of the production were good. There seemed to be a delay with the start of the production, with the audience in the dark for a couple of minutes. The lighting was a general wash that lit the whole stage. Some of the more poignant moments were captured in a spotlight, which was an interesting choice that really made the audience pay attention to those moments. Sound effects were well sourced and cued accurately.

Clare Watson played Mary. This was a good interpretation from Clare, who played a wide range of emotions throughout the play. Clare created believable relationships with the rest of the cast, especially with Jen and Eliz. Clare did well in delivering some of the heart-wrenching moments, as well as adding to the comedic moments throughout.

Jen Brassington played Teresa. This was a confident performance from Jen. She looked like she was having a great time on stage, especially with the drunk scene. This was suitably funny, and Jen was able to rein it in when divulging some family secrets.

Eliz Ward played the third sister, Catherine. Eliz did well as the youngest sister, providing some of the comedic moments throughout. The outrageous costumes brought plenty of laughter. She was able to get the loneliness of the character across through her performance.

Anna Burke played Vi. This is a difficult role to play, as the ghost of the deceased mother. It would have been great to have some more light and shade from Anna’s performance, as it seemed to be played on one level.

Martin Watson played Mike. Martin provided good support in his role. He did well to showcase the conflicting nature of his character about whether he should stay with his wife or leave her for Mary. Martin did well with the more comedic moments as well.

David Burke played Frank. David played the doting husband of Teresa well. There could have been a bigger reaction after the moment with Catherine to really get the comedy across, but overall it was an effective performance.

Overall, this was a good production. There were some good performances, some interesting technical elements, and good staging.

Thank you to Phoenix Theatre Company for the kind invite and hospitality. All the best for your next production, ‘The Wolves of Willoughby Chase’, in November.

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