From a series of ‘Tales From Paradise Heights’, the play is written for six actors to play all the parts. But how interesting can a bench really be? Well, set in a park frequented, and resided by a whole town of interesting folk, from (almost) all walks of life, we witness neighbourly chat, declarations, (role)playing out of fantasies and other things we perhaps would rather not choose to witness.
It's not JUST a bench in the park, between a bin and a war memorial. A thief, a fake clairvoyant, a homeless man, two teenage burglars, a street sweeper, two war veterans, an artist, a widow, a drug dealer, a loan shark, an angel and a ghost. They've all sat here at least once this year (starting in February and March for the first half and then into Winter for the second half, and before the end of the year one of them will be murdered here...!
Described as “a comedy of love, life and loss”, there is quite a bit of adult language and graphic themes. Although it starts with S&M, it follows all manner of topics, from bereavement and grief to self-talk, coping with rejection, old age, self-believe and even coping with conviction and the life and intense psychology that follows - of course the least funny and most serious and, in parts, harrowing scene. It really messes with you.
The play has always been much loved by audiences, some seeing the production five times or more in prestigious venues like Salford's The Lowry, The Octagon Theatre in Bolton and The Library Theatre in Manchester (goodness, remember that place!?) and will be at Crewe Lyceum, Swansea Grand, The Platform Morecambe, Epstein in Liverpool and then Lancaster Grand. We had it following a showing at Theatre Royal Wakefield in March.
The cast are brilliant and the stories too, although grabbing our attention for the whole show, there could have been a bit of trimming, with the show filling every minute or a 10pm finish. Although individual stories, it was nice to join some of them together (referencing of names, etc) but this could also have been done more to link it all together as a town/park.
The cast includes Peter Slater, Lisa Moore, Bill Bradshaw, Joe Malone, Ross Thompson and Joe Byrne himself (read further to find out how he is matched to, at least one of the roles). They each have a wealth of experience in stage and TV work (yes, and thriller/dramas) and their versatilities are evident in each portrayal. The costume and accent changes are amazing and, in the literal blink of an eye, they are someone different. Standouts include portrayals of elderly friends and comrades Lenny and Archie, Ross Thompson’s portrayal of naïve and juvenile ‘chav’ Jake, Pearl and Barbara, Shirley and Corney’s Valentine’s heartwarming tete-a-tete. Eric and Gabrielle’s frustrated feelings and believing in one another’s talents, as well as acclaimed comedienne Lisa Moor’s may incarnations, including Colin, and Janet’s confidently awkward bad sweeping puns.
A bit of background…
After 13 long years, 'The Bench' is back - and 'Tales From Paradise Heights' are alive and kicking! The first two shows went down an absolute storm at The Gatehouse Theatre in Stafford, and Whitby Pavilion. The show enchants you, thrills you, chills you, haunts you and will break your heart. Six actors play 16 unforgettable characters all wrapped up in 12 scenes, 12 months and one helluva show.
But how did the show come about?
Joe Byrne was approached to play the part of Frank in 'Educating Rita' at Studio Salford but, upon approaching Willy Russell's agent, found that they couldn't get the rights. With the dates about to be cancelled, Byrne asked if he could put something new on instead. With plans to extend the Paradise Heights world further (after his first play 'Lookin’ For Lucy'), and so started work on the Bench.
“I work Sundays for the probation service as a Community Service Officer which involves me going out supervising offenders on various projects in the community; everything from painting church halls, clearing pathways, various gardening projects etc. I had been working with a group of six lads for some time in a church graveyard, landscaping and generally keeping the grass down and the flower beds tidy. One week we installed a bench in the graveyard, and during lunch I had sat on it, looking out across the grave stones and I just thought 'I wonder how many people will end up sitting on this? What will they talk about? What will be going on in their lives?' And that's when the inspiration hit me - I'd write a couple of scenes set around a park bench in a municipal park in Paradise Heights - that would be all I'd need in terms of a set - simple, manageable and cheap. The play would be a great device to introduce a range of characters that I could feature in future plays from the series.”
We have all watched people from a secluded spot (or in full view, on a bench, in the middle of a park) and made stories up for people’s lives. Based on how they behave or look or speak or move. What better way to put that into context than real life played out on stage? With many morals, I came away with ‘believe in yourself and others’, ‘don’t underestimate’ and ‘don’t try to be big’ and I’m still thinking about these points today.
Reviewer - John Kristof
on - 20.4.23
An excellent review. I saw the play in Stafford and can only agree with all your comments.
ReplyDeleteI was there at The Muni! What a night of mixed emotions! Great review of a great performance….it has left me intrigued to learn more about these characters…bring on the other plays from the suite of Paradise Heights. I cannot wait.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely brilliant ! seen the bench 3 times at different venues,salford,wakefield and stafford the audience gave a standing ovation each time,so much to enjoy. Origional comic tragic street life tales ,outstanding AO
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