The Reunion
Information
- Date
- 6th March 2014
- Society
- Too Friendly Theatre Company
- Venue
- Little Theatre Southport
- Type of Production
- Play
- Director
- Cliff Gillies
“The Reunion” is a very funny comedy and yet poignant play written by Peter Gordon. The play revolves around Nigel, who arranges a reunion for his friends twenty five years after their last meeting in the back room of the same pub they all once frequented when young men. He is optimistic of a good turnout, but, unfortunately the numbers attending disappoint him, when only three middle-aged men turn up, bringing with them an assortment of wives and girlfriends. However each has a story to tell, and as the evening unfolds, the men reassess and reflect on their lives and friendships, whereas the women recognize the futility of the whole exercise.
This was a very enjoyable production directed by Cliff Gillies, who also found the time to play the demanding role of Thomo. The curtains opened to a very effective set which together with furnishings and props produced a good representation of the back room of a shabby pub, well done to the stage crew. Cliff was very fortunate to have some very talented actors at his disposal, so I think it would be unfair to single out individual performances, as they all suited their roles very well and performed outstandingly. The audience found themselves entertained by a number of very enjoyable extremely different characters, which were created exceptionally well by each cast member; and getting these characters right was vital to the success of this play. The cast worked well together with no weak links, and their comic timing was spot-on which is crucial in this type of production. Costumes suited the roles well and dialogue flowed easily at just the right speed, diction was excellent from all on stage, which was essential in this very wordy play. As a result of all the above; the cast, along with Peter Gordon’s script and Cliff Gillies direction, were able to produce a very fine comedy, along with some embarrassing confusion, combined with a poignant story which provided an enjoyable entertaining evening for the audience to experience.
Well done and congratulations to all involved in this production and thank you for inviting me I had a very enjoyable evening.
© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.