Time at the Bar

Charlie Lloyd’s debut play features an emotionally rich and well-structured plot. The characters are well-defined and offer actors ample opportunity to bring them alive. With a cast of eleven - some taking on multiple roles - their performances perfectly conveyed each character, and they all worked extremely well together. The dialogue was smooth, confident and well-timed, effectively bringing out the comedy, empathy, and sympathy needed by the writer. The title of the play is particularly clever, and its significance became evident as the performance progressed

“Time at the Bar” is a dark comedy-drama about brothers Issac and John, who re-unite at their elder brother Garry's wake. Andrew Wilkinson excelled as Issac, while Christy Fitzsimons delivered a strong performance as John with body language to suit. John’s attitude to life constantly irritates Isaac and the actors effectively portrayed these two very different personalities and emotions. Tina, played by Emily Capp, is deeply in love with Issac and cares for him, although he only sees her as a friend. She tries to smooth things out between the two brothers and Emily was very, very good in this role.

While spending an evening at the nightclub “Borealis,” the friends experience a strange event coinciding with the appearance of the Northern Lights, the aurora borealis. This transports them back to 1994, when the beer was cheaper and the outfits retro. The lighting and disco music ensured that the audience knew exactly when and where the action was taking place - with dancing, lots of drinking and a fight or two with the bouncers. While enjoying the evening, they must try and find a way back to 2016. However, before they can do this, they are convinced that they see a familiar face, that of Garry, the elder brother, who doesn’t recognize them due to the age gap. Garry faces significant challenges in his personal life, including navigating a complex relationship with his girlfriend, Fran, and a potential involvement with drugs. Participation in this event provides the boys with greater insight into Garry’s circumstances. Glen Gregory portrayed the character with exceptional professionalism, demonstrating the nuanced mannerisms well-suited to the role.   

The production features Michael Simpson as Ant, Lily Watson as Gracie-Louise/Fran, Rob Place as Kev, Daniel O’Key as Bernard (a nightclub bouncer – someone best not to cause any trouble with) and his gentle side-kick Colin, played by Harvey Higgins. Amy Longbottom as Michelle/Jess and Jamie Wainwright as Brad/Mark. All these actors performed their characters perfectly  

As the play unfolds, the three friends try to return to 2016 and realize the man at the bar is Garry, who is soon arrested for drug dealing and this stirs strong emotions. With John's mobile and some technological magic, Issac and Tina return to 2016 but John ends up in the year 2054. This he accepts with his usual flair - “Get us a drink”.

Writing a novel or play demands hard work, character development, clear direction of actions and relationships and these are skills Charlie Lloyd demonstrates in both writing and directing. His achievements were supported by producer Hollie Warman, a skilled backstage crew, an efficient technical team (though the disco music was sometimes a little bit loud. Just a minute, the music was loud in those days…) and, of course, the talented cast.

Thank you for the invitation and an enjoyable evening at the theatre. This production shows that the future of amateur theatre is secure with talented new writers and actors.

Sue Cox  NODA Drama Rep

Region 14

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