The ageing course of can bestow many presents. It provides us data, knowledge and a larger appreciation of life. But it additionally steals time – essentially the most treasured commodity of all. We cling to reminiscences as they fragment and lose their readability however the previous will all the time convey consolation. Peter Gill’s new play lands in a care residence and tells an enthralling story of misplaced youth and unhappy reflection. Two aged gents relate the story of their biggest love while dutiful kinfolk ponder the long run. The spectre of previous love revisits to point out who really stirred their ardour.
With a blanket draped throughout his knees, Alex (Christopher Godwin) describes a fateful first assembly in Hammersmith. Meanwhile, Colin (Ian Gelder) sketches a spikey and playful encounter in Soho. Both drift out and in of slumber as they discreetly maintain arms. Twentysomethings Nick (James Schofield) and Gareth (Sam Thorpe-Spinks) seem of their desires and recreate conversations from the previous. Alex’s son Andrew (Andrew Woodall) fills in his backstory while Clare (Claire Price) does the identical for her uncle Colin.
A play filled with dialogue locations all six characters on stage as they concurrently ship traces including depth to Alex and Colin’s story. Whilst that is central to the interaction between the characters, it may possibly generally be troublesome to observe. The rhythmic supply is difficult however compelling as a wonderful script involves the fore. Vivid reminiscences of London within the Fifties are painted in an excellent hue. The Sixties obtain the identical therapy as diffidence gave method to newly discovered confidence and liberalism. But the shackles that confined them continued to hang-out and hinder a life lived in shadow. The proper to be who they’re seemingly coming too late as conference took management. Andrew and Claire appear oblivious to their formative years and blindsided by the intimacy they now share. But inevitably private points are effervescent beneath the floor. Whilst there may be an simple pathos in regards to the play it nonetheless has its lighter moments, which nestle with broader dilemmas about caring for the aged and preventing the evil presence of dementia.Peter Gill has normal a wonderfully judged piece complemented by a superlative solid. It handed within the blink of a watch and ended simply because it bought going. The capacity to color footage with phrases is a uncommon expertise and proof of a craftsman at work. It was an all too quick 65 minutes that may go away you wanting far more.
Review by Brian Penn
Rating: ★★★★
Seat: D9 | Price of Ticket: £33/£29 concessions