The Weird Will of Willy Williams

     

I was warmly welcomed on arrival and discussed the performance at the end with Director Margaret Surrey.

The set was a room in the rather shabby house of William also known as Uncle Harry. Cleverly designed by Terry Surrey and built by the society it consisted of a wallpapered room with various chairs, a desk and a bookcase. There was a main entrance/exit at the rear. The lighting was complimentary to the plot and stage and overall sound levels were appropriate. Projection by the cast was mostly good. Gunshots were the major sound effects whilst the voice of Uncle Harry emanated from a laptop. Costumes were everyday wear and suitable for the setting.

The script was quite dramatic in places with plenty of humour and comedy. There were lots of twists and turns with a surprise ending that the audience could not have predicted ! The only two beneficiaries of Uncle Harry’s will had gathered at his house with the solicitor to read the will. Jacky was played by Layla Crane and her brother Tim was played by Isaac Jordan-Burrows. These two actors were both seventeen and shared a substantial script. They were mostly word perfect so well done to both.  Layla grew into the role becoming confident in her arguments with her brother and eventually becoming the organiser. She had good expressions and plenty of movement around the stage. Isaac had considerable stage presence with fluid movements which used the entire stage. He had good expressions and mannerisms and showed considerable confidence.

The role of the solicitor, Melissa was well played by Cheryl Regan who only took on the role a month or so ago. She displayed some very interesting expressions and mannerisms especially when being secretive. She had the ability to switch to a more formal manner when dealing with the legalities.

And now to Uncle Harry who was not dead but playing tricks on his relatives. Brilliantly played by Graham Everard he appeared full of anxiety and nervous energy.

With a personality verging on insanity he had a nonchalant attitude with great facial expressions and unpredictable behaviour. Good stage movements and very well acted.

This challenging script was unknown to me and very enjoyable. Ably directed by the experienced and talented Director Margaret Surrey I congratulate the small cast and the supporting crew on this entertaining and well acted performance.

 

 

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