Review by Tara Perez
TWO OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES LIGHT UP THIS CLASSIC COMEDY
Willy Russell’s timeless comedy continues to delight audiences some 45 years since it first debuted, covering many of the same relevant issues today, as it did then, of class, education and opportunity.
A two-hander, set in a book shelved professors’ study, created by set and costume designer Cory Shipp, gives ample opportunity for these cleverly written characters to thrive. Together with the great lighting and sound of Ben Ormerod and John Leonard it gives quite a grand feel to the room itself. What’s great about the intimacy of the Barn is that you are always fully immersed as if you’re part of what’s going on.
The two leads Justin Edwards as Frank, and Ellie Clayton as Rita, turned in quite brilliant performances with everyone rising for a finale standing ovation in appreciation. Edwards perfectly captures the frustration of a failed poet and a disillusioned tutor. Powerful and nuanced, he hits the comic beats of Russell’s punchlines while also achieving some less predictable notes and shifts, as well as a really plausible sadness and richness to the role.
Ellie Clayton as Rita matches him perfectly, always alert and responsive, full of energy and verve. A working-class hairdresser and Frank’s latest student, she desperately wants to learn all about literary classics and broaden her horizons to lift herself out of the mundane life she finds herself in. Her effervescence quickly endears her to the Barn audience; and particularly amusing is the early encounters where her she doesn’t allow for Frank to get a word in.
The tremendous chemistry between the two was there for all to see. I overheard a couple behind me saying that it was some of the best acting they’d seen at a Barn play, and given the pedigree of the theatre’s productions over the years that was praise indeed.
This timeless classic delivers plenty of comedy moments along the way and Willy Russel’s story enables us to care about them almost as if they were family.
Director Stephen Unwin has created a production filled with plenty of humour, affection and intelligence that really captures the spirit of Willy Russell’s play. An immensely enjoyable way to spend an evening and well worth the trip. A very uplifting, joyful, and funny production with real heart.
For more information or to book tickets, go to barntheatre.org.uk
or call box office on 01285 648255.
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