THE UNFRIEND

What a fun evening’s entertainment, with good performances.  I did not know what to expect, so was pleasantly surprised!  The script was well-written, giving the cast plenty of action and chance to make the most of the words, with double entendre and plenty of put downs, making it interesting and highly amusing, playing out a scenario that asked you whether or not to believe what you read on the internet – perplexing in the extreme and something which played out right to the end!

Overall a well-directed piece, using a diverse cast well.  The use of the side stage for the Ship and later the kitchen with the relevant back drops, created a good dimension and added much to the look of the play.  The main set was smart and well-dressed.

Lighting and sound effects all worked well, and the costumes were well-presented, suiting the characters.

Robert Peacock (Peter) gave this man just the right amount of drive and uncertainty, good contrasts within the whole person, with Imogen Roberts (Debbie) showing a real understanding of the Britishness of not wanting to upset anyone, even if they were entertaining a murderer who had come to stay!  A very good, and believable couple.

Alison Moore (Elsa), a newcomer to Bovingdon Players, gave the American such vivacity, whilst making you almost believe her, and being such a helpful person in trying to iron out the parent/child relationships, which was very good to see.  I liked her ebullience, but also the quieter more reflective moments.

Dan O’Donnell (Alex) – also new to the Players, and Tess Milligan (Rosie) played the teenage kids so well, just the right amount of exasperation towards their parents, moving to a better relationship after Elsa had a hand in making them see how much better life could be!  Well-executed, good contrasts within their portrayals.

John Mower (The Neighbour) was a typical nosy person, such a great characterisation, which made us all love to hate him, but he got his comeuppance in the end!!  Very well done.

Iain King (PC Junkin) completed this experienced cast with the slightly more down to earth character, I loved the toilet scene – very well-achieved!!

All in all a really good evening, my thanks to the Director for hosting me and giving me plenty of insight into the production, always a pleasure to attend Bovingdon Players.

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