A luxuriously well written play, filled with action and dramatic relationships, performed by a cast of promising actors.
This was the world premier of 'Clouds' in the Lauriston Studio space at Altrincham Garrick Theatre, Manchester. Written by Laura Crow, directed by Jacqueline Wheble and performed by Time And Again Theatre Company. 'Clouds' is the follow-up to their successful 2018 play 'Greyhounds'. This was the opening night of their new work before it transfers to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, an exciting chance to see a fledgling piece of theatre.
'Clouds' tells the story of pioneering aviator Winifred Baxter, aka Freddy, played by Laura Crow in her attempt to enter an air race despite her failing health. Taught by expert pilot Philip Brook played by Tim Cooper and supported by friend Sylvia Lovejoy played by Fiona Primrose and brother Theodore Baxter played by Anthony Morris and all under the watchful eye of patron Sara Fitzmaurice played by Catherine Cowdrey.
The most notable performances came from actors Primrose and Morris, both acted with a commandingly believable presence in their roles. The opening of the second act saw Sylvia and Theodore shyly professing their love for one another over a basket of rotten apples. Both actors have a great comedic delivery and had a spark between them that made their bumbling attempt at wooing an endearing and enjoyable moment, this was my favourite moment of the play. The second act also brought the revelation that Brook was married and Freddy was heartbroken over this, I had missed this detail in the first act, that Freddy had fallen for Brook and was left confused as to why Brook's marital status caused her such grief.
So much of the play was delivered looking up over the audience, this was effective for the content of the play but became frustrating, if used periodically this may have been more powerful. At times I doubted connectivity between certain actors and I wonder if this may have been the causing factor.
Technically the cast used the studio space to its utmost potential, balancing the positions of the actors around a massive propeller plane prop sat up-stage-right with complete precision. This obviously well-placed blocking went against them as I assume there was a technical fault in the lighting as down stage was in darkness, actors that came too far forward were unlit and the actors didn't adjust their position to find their lighting.
The detail that went into costume and make up was delightful, I marvelled at the female characters immaculate hair and attention to historical detail in their Edwardian clothing. A dedicated Tim Cooper had a well groomed moustache perfect for his character.
This is a great play and with the abundance of rave reviews for Time And Again's last piece 'Greyhounds', I am sure they will present another knock-out show at Edinburgh Festival. It felt cruel to review this on opening night as maybe it was nerves that limited connectivity and chemistry between the actors.
Reviewer - Kerry Ely
on - 5/6/19
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