RIVERS UP: Alex Jones
Worcester
RIVER'S UP: Alex Jones
Worcester Swan Theatre: Tkts 01905 27322
Runs: 120m: one 20 minute interval: until 9th November
Ranjit Khutan: 25th October 2002
Comic, tragic, strong stuff - a bit too strong for some, and plenty to think about.On the evidence of this play, it's clear that Alex Jones is a comedy writer and a very good one at that. The play is described as 'a quirky tragi-comedy of epic proportions' and it doesn't fail to deliver this intriguing description.
Tom and Sally live next to the river Severn in Worcester. We learn about how their lives have been changed through the yearly floods and the planning and impending fear they go through as the water rises, as it does on this occasion, causing yet another flood. Sally is tired of the continual floods and longs to sell up and move away from the river whereas Tom tries to earn a living on the river, as his ancestors have done so for many years - albeit today through a party boat.
Jones's portrayal of this elderly couple is endearing, funny and reminiscent of the TV sitcom 'One Foot in the Grave'. He clearly has a sharp understanding of older people who often communicate through arguments and disagreements but at the core of it have a love that is deeper than these spur-of-the-moment throw away comments.
Stephen Crane and Sunny Ormonde are careful in their delivery of the comedy rising from the apocalyptic situation of the river rising: they provide first class performances throughout. At times, though, language and content is not well received by the Worcester audience - each according to their taste, I suppose.
The play also leaves you with a sense of awe that global warming may well bring changes to (or even be changing now) the real livelihoods of people around this river - which flows only a few yards from the theatre itself.
The analogy also extends to the locals trying to save this theatre from disappearing - it's had its budget severely cut by the local council. It will be a shame that the theatre may be closed down for this is a strong productions and staff are committed. Like the lady I chatted to who was selling sweets in the interval, she told me how she has lived in the same house across the way from the theatre all her life.
I really do hope the Council sorts out its act.
Tom Millington: Stephen Crane
Sally Millington: Sunny Ormonde
Director: Jenny Stephens
Designer: Keith Baker
Lighting: Adrian Barnes
2002-10-27 17:54:39