3 STARS, March 21-25. Old Hamptonians Amateur Dramatic Society presents an accomplished production of Alan Bennett's BBC series, Talking Heads. It was a dislike of Bennett's work more than any fault of the production that resulted in only 3 stars
Old Hamptonians Amateur Dramatic Society presents a take on Alan Bennett’s BBC series Talking Heads from the 21st-25th March. The first of the shows is split into three separate monologues: A Cream Cracker under the Settee (performed by Fran Billington, directed by Harry Medawar) , Soldiering On (performed by Clare Cooper, directed by Asha Harjan Gill) and A Chip in the Sugar (performed by Steve Taylor, directed by Rebecca Tarry).
I’ve had very little exposure to the work of Alan Bennett beyond the recent blockbuster “The Lady in the Van”, but going by the description of “heart-warming” on the advert I had high hopes for the evening. Unfortunately I was disappointed in this respect, far from heart-warming, I found myself rather heavy hearted – particularly at the end of Soldiering On when Muriel ironically exclaims “I’m not a tragic woman” amidst a life we’ve seen gradually dismantled through the course of the performance. However, I recognise that it’s Alan Bennett’s work that isn’t my cup of tea; not any fault of those whose hard work went into putting this show together!
Upon our arrival to the Hampton Hill Playhouse we were led away from the main theatre hall, up a flight of stairs and into a back room on the second floor. At first, I was slightly taken aback – having expected to be watching it on the main stage – but I found that the small and slightly cramped room actually suited the performance better, creating a much more intimate and personal atmosphere; enhancing the feeling that we were sat in the various character’s homes with them, having a conversation over a cup of tea.
Although I admit the monologues didn’t have me on the edge of my seat, the actors kept the rhythm going through out, which is a difficult thing to achieve on your own. The symbolism used was particularly interesting, such as reducing the flowers in the vase until there was only one left, reflecting Muriel’s isolation in Soldiering On – which I found encouraged deeper reflection on the issues explored.
Although, I’ve discovered I’m not an Alan Bennett fan, if you are then OHADS performance of these famous monologues is definitely worth seeing!
- Showing until March 25, the Friday & Saturday performances will include Bennett's short stories from the series Bed Among Lentils, Her Big Chance, and A Woman of No Importance. For tickets visit: hamptonhilltheatre.org.uk
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