How I Learned To Drive - Paula Vogel
RATING * * * *
Directed by Jack Sain
Southwark Playhouse, until 14th March 2015
As I walked across the studio stage to take my seat, I was instantly taken with the set and the 1960s, American props, décor and music of the time. I was drawn in right from the outset, with the opening monologue immediately creating atmosphere and emotional attachment to the character.
Olivia Poulet takes the lead as the confused, precocious Lil' Bit, a seventeen year old girl who is fascinated and taken in by her predatory Uncle Peck, played by William Ellis. The ensemble, which comprised of Bryony Corrigan, Holly Hayes and Joshua Miles, brought energy, humour and convincing multi-roling to the piece, from overbearing family members, to teasing school children and waiters. Their faces were whitened to provide a sense of ambiguity so multi-roling could be made more effective. The clever and slick use of minimal props managed to create vivid scenes.
This is a play about growing up and inappropriate family relationships. The piece is brought to a satisfying conclusion, where not all is lost.
This contrasts with A View From The Bridge, which I recently reviewed, where the denouement resulted in tragedy for all. The characters and their development in How I Learned To Drive, were real and believable whereas in A View From The Bridge, I did not feel that this reality and rawness of character came across. For me, How I Learned To Drive worked far better in portraying this theme of family relationships and in a more truthful way, punctuated with humour and pathos.
RATING * * * *
Directed by Jack Sain
Southwark Playhouse, until 14th March 2015
As I walked across the studio stage to take my seat, I was instantly taken with the set and the 1960s, American props, décor and music of the time. I was drawn in right from the outset, with the opening monologue immediately creating atmosphere and emotional attachment to the character.
Olivia Poulet takes the lead as the confused, precocious Lil' Bit, a seventeen year old girl who is fascinated and taken in by her predatory Uncle Peck, played by William Ellis. The ensemble, which comprised of Bryony Corrigan, Holly Hayes and Joshua Miles, brought energy, humour and convincing multi-roling to the piece, from overbearing family members, to teasing school children and waiters. Their faces were whitened to provide a sense of ambiguity so multi-roling could be made more effective. The clever and slick use of minimal props managed to create vivid scenes.
This is a play about growing up and inappropriate family relationships. The piece is brought to a satisfying conclusion, where not all is lost.
This contrasts with A View From The Bridge, which I recently reviewed, where the denouement resulted in tragedy for all. The characters and their development in How I Learned To Drive, were real and believable whereas in A View From The Bridge, I did not feel that this reality and rawness of character came across. For me, How I Learned To Drive worked far better in portraying this theme of family relationships and in a more truthful way, punctuated with humour and pathos.