The Pride

Thank you for inviting me to your production of The Pride a challenging play which dealt with attitudes towards gay relationships, 50 years apart. The director cleverly managed the transition between 1958 and 2008 having one character from the next scene enter the stage whilst the previous scene was still in progress observing what had gone before or acting as an influence on what would come.

The actors had really developed their characters giving powerful and emotional performances and showing real trust for each other as they portrayed disturbing and uncomfortable situations. They worked extremely well together and conveyed the story with expression and skill. I commend Progress for having an intimacy co-ordinator which must have been invaluable to the two actors playing the gay couples so that they were comfortable with the intimacy needed and also to deal with the disturbing assault. 

Lighter moments contrasted with the heavier times and gave some relief for the actors and audience alike. Similarly, the well sourced costumes of bright Pride rainbow colours in 2008 contrasted well with the duller colours in 1958 and reflected the changing attitudes to homosexuality.

The director had designed a simple box set with white furniture which made the focus the action on stage rather than the set. Using electronic pictures to depict different locations meant that the scenes flowed rather than being interrupted by moving set pieces. 

Well done to all the cast and production team for this powerful play.

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