The Pride

This powerful and thought provoking debut play by the author takes place across two timelines ie 1958 and 2008 and involves the same three main characters. It is highly charged and emotive looking at changing attitudes to sexuality and particularly homosexuality. Oliver, played by Lewis Schaefer, is in love with Philip, played by Max Taylor Saunders, who is married to Sylvia, played by Sally Rawlins.

Lewis was superb in his role, bringing just the right touch of sensitivity and pathos to the part whilst struggling to understand his emotions and attractions to other men. Max also interpreted his role very well indeed, trying to remain faithful to Sylvia whilst attempting to deny his attraction to Oliver. Sally tried hard to keep her marriage alive and had some powerful scenes with Philip and she produced a great performance. The fourth cast member, Chris Green, played three distinct roles of The Man, Peter and The Doctor, each requiring different interpretations and drew laughter from the audience on several occasions. I thought that all the cast dealt remarkably well with such challenging roles and appeared word perfect so well done !

I talked to both Ria Milton, Director, and Rachel Curren, Assistant Director who was making her debut in this role. Both spoke of the commitment and dedication of the cast and acknowledged the talents of the production team. Lots of interesting ideas had been exchanged and tried before the production including significant contributions from  Keith Newman (sound design) and Peter Curtis ( lighting design).The set was minimal and totally fit for purpose consisting of a table, sofa, cushions and a revolving bookcase, all of which were on stage throughout. Full marks to Stage Manager Sue Marriott for the slick scene changes between the two timelines. Costumes were appropriate to each of the two periods thanks to Wardrobe Mistress Bernice Cramphorn. Set construction and props were all effective and reflected the different periods, thanks to the teams involved.

This was possibly a difficult play to sell to an audience and this was reflected in the fact that the theatre was only circa 50% full on the evening I attended and this had apparently been the case on  the preceding nights. It was a brave decision by the group to present such a challenging production so well done to everyone involved, both on and off stage for rising so admirably to the challenge.

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