An Honest Debate About Mothers and Daughters
Actresses of a certain age often comment that there are never enough suitable theatre roles. So, poet/ playwright Liz Lochhead (pictured here) wrote the ideal character for her friend Siobhan Redmond - Barbs Marshall, a 39 year old Glasgow hairdresser, the lead role in her romantic comedy Perfect Days. A resounding hit at the Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh Fringe, 1998, the play is now being revived by Practical Magic from Hamilton, with a cast of actors ranging from professional to experienced amateurs. First night the house was full.
Vivacious redhead, Marianne P Muir, plays Barbs, successful businesswoman and media star but ten years on since separating from her husband, now feels lonely and childless. "I will not pretend to be happy" she tells her mother, the kindly yet dominating Sadie superbly played by Catherine Steele, who gives inappropriate birthday presents and advice. She confides in her best friend, Alice and gay colleague Brendan, the riotously camp, Graeme Kerr about her ingenious plans for motherhood. The storyline is brilliantly clever and complex, developing in pace from gentle sit-com to hilarious Alan Ayckbourn-style farce, hidden lovers, underpants and all.
Lochhead's intuitive ear, capturing realistic West Coast Scotland sparky, streetwise speech, mannerism and characterisation is quite brilliant - language is bold and bawdy, yet never offensive. Behind the humour there`s also an honest debate about mothers and daughters, sexuality and family relationships. Alan Bayley directs with meticulous detail assisted by minimalist set, fine music soundtrack and flawlessly cast ensemble. This is a perfect night out.
PS. Warning - difficult sightlines and uncomfortable seating in the hotel function suite - but that's the Fringe
When and Where
Runs to August 16th, 8pm every day at Crowne Plaza Hotel (venue 39), 80 High Street. Presented by Practical Magic Theatre.
Return to Index of 2003 Fringe Reviews.
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