Bolton Wanderers in The Stage part 2

The very kind Joanna has been in touch again and kindly scanned and sent David's section of the recent interview with him and Mark in The Stage. You can read Mark's bit here.

Bolton Wanderers in The Stage

There was a really nice double page spread in the recent edition of The Stage about Mark's leaving and David taking up his post. I have tried to find the article on the website with no luck but a lady called Joanna has scanned and emailed me the page about Mark. It was his leaving party on Saturday so I thought in light of that you might want to read what he had to say about his time here. Click to enlarge it.



David's bit to follow...

Line for the Comedy Mela

We have now had the line-up confirmed for the Comedy Mela on 19 June. Looks like it is going to be a really good night. Here's the skinny on the line-up....

Shazia Mirza



"Her laconic one-liners represent something quite unique in modern comedy."

William Cook, The Guardian

Shazia is a very funny award winning British Asian stand up Comedian from Birmingham England.

She works all over the world and has toured the US, Sweden, Denmark, France Holland and Germany. She has appeared on CBS 60 Minutes, NBC's Last Comic Standing, and Have I Got News for You (BBC) and not only that she has won various awards including: semi-finalist NBC's Last Comic Standing 2008; Winner of the GG2 Young Achiever of the Year Award 2003 andWinner of Metro Magazines in association with Jongleurs Comedy Clubs People's Choice Best Comic Award 2002

Shazia could have married a rich man and lived in a mansion on The Bishops Avenue, with servants, bidets, and horses. But instead she chose to drive up and down the country for as little as ten pounds, staying in dirty lurid bed and breakfasts trying to make people laugh. You can read more about her here.

Ryan Gough
Apparently Ryan he is on a famous advert on Asian TV network for chapatti flour as a wrestler and his face can be seen on lots of posters and bill boards in Indian food shops! I don't know why I say apparently because here he is...



Ryan performed his first gig in December 2000, jumping up on a comedy club stage to deputise for his mate who 'bottled it' at the last minute. As the compere introduced his nervous friends name, he bolted into the Gents and Ryan took the mike and treated the small Birmingham crowd to an improvised routine about the boredom of his job at the time.

Over three years and two hundred gigs later, Ryan has now graduated to a regular circuit act, performing at every comedy club from Newcastle to Plymouth. Being 6 foot 5 inches tall and touching on nineteen stone with a shaved head, a lazy eye and his trademark black leather coat, Ryan can look scary, intimidating and aggressive. But nothing can be further from the truth, Ryan's friendly banter with the audience makes him an ideal compere.

Imran Yusuf
Imran is an up and coming comic. Click here to have a look at him in action. I tried to embed it here for ease but it is not to be. Don't try and say that I don't do anything for you!

And here's what's being said:

“Imran is something I’ve never ever seen before… he almost rapped his gig… it had the rhythm of a rap. I’ve never ever, ever seen anyone’s delivery like that.” Adam Bloom, BBC Radio 7

“Whippet-thin Imran Yusuf is almost cartoon-like in his physicality, prancing nimbly round the stage, striking clownish poses and gurning comically when it’s called for. It’s a tour-de-force delivery, full of infectious vigour and life.”

Chortle 2008

“It's difficult to describe our middle act, Imran Yusuf, who is, in the reviewer's opinion, the most exciting and original act to grace the Big Jack's stage in a while. His lightning quick patter was mind boggling, veering crazily between different subjects and accents and demanding pop-eyed attention from start to finish. Definitely one to watch.”

Big Jack’s Laughter Club

“Gangling around the stage, all elbows and knees, ripping into himself in street slang. We were helpless with laughter - so many great gags in such a short time. We've never seen anything like it. He's a proper original who could really go places”.

Roar With Laughter

To book your tickets to the Comedy Mela call the Ticket Office on 01204 520661 or click here to book online.

Cityscape line-up - 20 June...

The artistic mélange that is Cityscape Presents returns to the BNT on Saturday 20th June with two welcome returns - and a radical departure.

The welcome returns are headliner Kirsty McGee and opening act Alex Hulme, both back by popular demand after wowing audiences at the Cityscape nights in December and February respectively.

The radical departure isn’t a music act at all but a short play for voices written in homage to Bolton comedian and poet Richard McFarlane, aka Hovis Presley, and performed to mark the fourth anniversary of his untimely death.

This is what Brad had to say abou the next event “We’ve had some great evenings and this one promises to be something special. Kirsty and Alex both went down incredibly well when they performed here before and I’m looking forward to hearing them again. The addition of Hovis in Wonderland will add an extra element to the night and be a great tribute to a very funny poet.”

Cityscape Presents has brought an array of intriguing acts to the Octagon - perhaps none more so than Kirsty McGee. McGee’s original songwriting, with its tender yet dark textures, has won her a considerable following including Radio Two DJ Bob Harris who describes her as “absolutely superb.”

An inveterate traveller and “human scrapbook”, her songs of vagrancy and restlessness are so difficult to categorise that people have been forced to coin new terms to describe them. Her style has been described as folk noir, ‘hobopop’ (the name of her record label) and even vaudebilly. In short, you have to hear it for yourself.

Sandwiched between the two musical acts is, appropriately enough, Hovis. Hovis In Wonderland is a play for voices written by Dave Morgan incorporating the words of Richard McFarlane’s alter ego Hovis Presley. Hovis filled the space between stand-up, performance poetry and alternative cabaret. Interest in his work and sales of his collection Poetic Off Licence were both stimulated when he was the subject of a Radio Four documentary presented by Mark Radcliffe. Since then the play has been widely toured and was evenperformed at last year’s Latitude festival in Suffolk.

Dave Morgan said: “This will be the first time we’ve appeared at the Octagon which makes the event extra special. The cast are determined as ever to do justice to the wit and wisdom of a wordsmith who is sorely missed.”

Opening up proceedings is precocious talent Alex Hulme (see him in all his glory here). Recently signed to Cityscape, the 18-year-old’s songwriting is pitched somewhere between the folk of Nick Drake and the poppier stylings of Get Cape Wear Cape Fly. He’s on the road this summer performing at local festivals such as Riversway Festival in Preston and Cockermouth Rock Festival amongst others.

We are pleased to welcome back Katie Mulgrew as compere for the night.

You can download tracks from all the artists here.

The Seafarer - the pictures...

The dress has been and gone, the stage is set, the costumes are ready, the lights are rigged, and The Seafarer opened last night. Press night happens tonight, the last one of the season. Can't quite believe how quickly it has come around. Time may not stand still but that is why we are lucky to have Ian capturing those moments in time for us when he shoots the production. You might have already seen the film footage of The Seafarer in rehearsal but the magical fairy dust of light, costume and set has been sprinkled and here is how the show looks now....

The Seafarer - Behind the scenes...

Usually when I film the shows it tends to happen at the dress rehearsal so what you see is pretty close to what you see when you come to see the show proper. However, we decided to shoot this video of the Seafarer during rehearsals in the slightly less glamorous space of the rehearsal room. Thought it might be nice for you too see the show without grease paint (do they use that anymore?) set and costumes so there is still an element of the unknown when you come to see the show proper.

As Mark says on the video The Seafarer is a very funny show, it is also his last one as Artistic Director (sniff!) so double reason to come and see it. There is also rather a lot of 'choice' language by that I mean there is rather a lot of swearing, a loh hoh hot of swearing. So if swearing isn't your thing then do not, I repeat DO NOT click on the video below. However, if you are up for the craic click away....



Remember you can see past films of our previous shows by clcking the video promo link in the side bar or watch them on our YouTube channel.

The Seafarer - casting news and one last hurrah!

The Seafarer by Conor McPherson will be the last in a remarkable line of productions that Mark Babych, our Artistic Director, will direct before he leaves to become a freelance director.

Since joining the Octagon in 1999 Mark has directed 44 productions; including three Arthur Miller plays; five Irish plays including The Seafarer; four world premieres and his award-winning production of Blonde Bombshells of 1943 which, toured to packed houses throughout 2007 and 2008 and is currently on tour again this year. Mark Babych had this to say:

“As I approach the end of my time as Artistic Director of the Octagon, I’m thankful for the many great opportunities and experiences I have had, and in particular, having worked with so many gifted people who have helped me achieve everything I have done here. I’m excited by the future, not just for myself, but for the Octagon too, which has a very talented new Artistic Director in David Thacker. David’s work will, I’m sure, inspire and delight audiences and I’m extremely pleased that a director of his calibre has taken up the reins and will take the Octagon forward into what will be an impressive future.

The Octagon is a unique theatre and, of course, I will miss being here. However, I’m delighted to be directing The Seafarer as my final production as Artistic Director. It’s a fantastically funny play by a writer whose work I really admire and rounds off a great love affair I have had with Irish writing here. I’m delighted that some of my old sparring partners Patrick Connellan, Peter Dineen and Mick O’Connor will be joining me for the last hurrah, as we waltz round the ballroom one more time with a play of great comic and dramatic invention”

What is it about?

The Seafarer takes places on Christmas Eve in Dublin. Sharky has returned to the town to look after his brother who has recently gone blind. Sharky is desperately attempting a Christmas off the booze, but his aim becomes impossible when faced with his hard-drinking brother, two old drinking buddies, and an enigmatic stranger; all of whom are determined to get him back on the whiskey. The drink starts flowing, the card games begin and as the evening wears on the stakes are raised dangerously high.

Who's in it?

The cast features Peter Dineen as Richard Harkin, Michael O’Connor as Sharky, Fintan McKeown as Mr. Lockhart, Brendan Charleson as Ivan and Leigh Symonds as Nicky.

Oleanna - the film

Have a look at the video promo for Oleanna. I think it packs quite a punch if you'll pardon the expression.

You can see previous video promos for Octagon shows on our new YouTube channel. Simply click here!

Oleanna - Press reviews....

Well it seems so far that Oleanna is getting some grade A reviews. In my humble opinion both the cast worked their socks off and drew you in to the performance, despite the fact you can't really sympathise with either of them. Reading the dialogue in the script feels difficult as, written, it is all pauses and dots and disjointed unfinished thoughts and the characters constantly interrupt each other, or get interrupted by the phone, but watching it is a completely different matter. When it is performed you just want to bang you hands on the desk and just say 'For good's sake let them finish....'.

The set is stark and the changes between the 'mood' lighting inbetween scenes and the sudden brilliant lights during the action leaves you feeling as on edge as the dialogue and the subject matter. If you are with your other half, beware, you might not end up leaving on speaking terms, especially if you are the one that said 'You bl**dy manipulative women, you’re all the same' but if you want a night of quality drama that will leave you thinking then see it.....now!

Here's what the press have ot say....

Conclusively, this is an evening that’s pretty much faultless. Yes, it’s controversial, harrowing, and disturbing and it’s meant to be. But it’s also gripping, fast-paced and thought-provoking and would appeal to anyone in search of a good night out.

Quite simply, Khan’s Oleanna is the best play currently playing in repertory in the region, and you must see it before the end of its run.WHAT'S ON STAGE. Read more here...

a production that still shows itself capable of promoting irritation and debate in an audience seventeen years after its first production.BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE. Read more here...

Oleanna only lasts an hour and a half and keeps true to the maxim - always leave your audience wanting more. That means there's still plenty of time to argue about it on the way home! MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS. Read more here...

Broadway and West End actor Colin Stinton is awesome as John, whose desire to impress Carol and his willingness to let her into his life becomes more desperate as the play develops.

Kosha Engler is equally excellent as the eager-to-learn student, whose views of her teacher change as she tries to convince him to up her grade, leading to the ultimate conflict. THE BOLTON NEWS. Read more here...

This is a play worth seeing. There are moments of beautifully executed performances and direction. THE PUBLIC REVIEWS. Read more here...

Khan includes that necessary factor in any self-respecting English Mamet production: Colin Stinton, the American actor thoroughly experienced in the writer’s style. And Kosha Engler finds both Carol’s vulnerability and later protective shield of certainty. REVIEWSGATE. Read more here...

Oleanna - production photography

Oleanna opened last night. I haven't seen the show yet as I will be seeing it at press night tonight. Although quite minimal the set is very striking. I love the mirrored bookshelves and the focus the large steel 'cage' gives the stage which I imagine adds to the intensity of the play and provides an arena for the sexually political conflict that takes place within its confines.

Here are the photos. If you don't want any inkling of how the drama unfolds or the outcome of this battle of the sexes then turn away now....

Oleanna Update

Next up is David Mamet’s Oleanna directed by Iqbal Khan; a play that shocked and divided its audiences at its premiere in the United States in 1992 and later in London. So much so that, apparently, fights broke out in the audiences.


What's it about?
John is a university professor seeking a long-term contract, and Carol his student who, having struggled to get her place is desperate to convince him to change her failing grade. Their relationship unfolds in blistering dialogue and dramatic shifts and leads to Carol accusing John of sexual harassment, which puts his whole academic future and life under threat. What is the truth of these allegations? Who do we believe and who is guilty?


A bit of background...

The British premiere of Oleanna was directed by Harold Pinter and starred David Suchet and Lia Williams at the Royal Court Theatre, 1993. Iqbal Khan worked closely with Pinter in his most recent productions at the National Theatre - Landscape and A Slight Ache. He was also the National Theatre tour director for Rafta Rafta. Oleanna marks his debut at the Octagon; the perfect setting for this gladiatorial contest.


Who is in it?

American actor Colin Stinton plays the role of John. Colin has worked extensively at the Royal National Theatre and has a wealth of television, film and stage acting behind him including his role as the eponymous Edmond in the European Premiere of Mamet’s play, at the Royal Court and Newcastle Playhouse, directed by Sir Richard Eyre. His film credits include Tomorrow Never Dies, The Winslow Boy and The Bourne Ultimatum. You can read an interview with Colin here.

Kosha Engler is Carol. In July, Kosha will appear in Moon Shot, a feature-length TV drama about the Apollo 11 moon landing, directed by Richard Dale for ITV.

Looking for Buddy - film noir!

If you want a sneak preview of what to expect from Looking for Buddy then look no further. As Phil the architect might say 'it's worth investigatin....'

Looking for Buddy - stop press....

It was press night for Looking for Buddy on Friday. If you are feeling a bit gloomy then this show will lift your spirits with some great gags that are beautifully delivered and uplifting songs that are brilliantly comic. Here's what the press are saying:

Mark Babych's slick production comes with a devastatingly downbeat central performance from Tim Healy, while Alan Barnes's brooding score proves that you don't need to be a legendary, LA-based private investigator to be a noir hero. THE GUARDIAN. Read more here...

This latest offering from the Octagon is short and very funny with some great live music and a superb lead performance, which all adds up to a fun night at the theatre that is to be recommended. BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE. Read more here...

The Octagon should be applauded for taking a risk on a brand new musical – something not often seen in regional theatres – and when it’s this much fun, this stands every chance of becoming the next Blood Brothers. WHAT'S ON STAGE. Read more here...

If you are looking for a night out that will make you laugh and a show that will make you tap your feet and clap along then get yourself a ticket for Looking for Buddy as soon as possible. THE PUBLIC REVIEWS. Read more here...

Director Mark Babych has come up with yet another production which is a credit to the Octagon – it’s fantastic that a whole new audience on the other side of the country will have the opportunity to experience it too. UK THEATRE. Read more here...

The laughs come thick and fast in this slick co-production dominated by moody video imagery. A delight from start to knee-kicking finish. THE STAGE. Read more here...

The production and direction are up to the Octagon’s usually high standards. MANCHESTER MUSIC. Read more here...

Looking at photos for Looking for Buddy

Looking for Buddy previewed last night and seems to have gone down a storm. Front of House staff have reported some very positive audience comments and have said there was a definite fizz in the air so it bodes well for press night tonight.

I haven't seen any of this show really since the read through right at the beginning of rehearsals. I have been saving it for tonight so I can also see it for the first time like the audience. Anyway, the production photos from Ian were in my inbox this morning and this has only added to my sense of excitement. It looks great. So if you want a sneaky peek have a look at the photos below..

The Caretaker - the movie...

If you haven't yet had the chance to see The Caretaker here's a quick glimpse of what you are missing...



You can book tickets here or call the Ticket Office on 01204 520661.

The Caretaker - The Reviews

Fortunately we don't have to go all the way to Sidcup to get the papers (that will make sense once you have seen or know the show) press reviews are available online so here is the round-up so far for The Caretaker.

Matthew Rixon's disturbingly docile Aston is a brilliant portrait of the horrors inflicted by a supposedly civilised state. 4 stars. THE GUARDIAN Read more here...

There is also plenty of really good humour that got plenty of laughs at the reviewed performance. Overall, the Octagon has created quite a compelling production of this difficult play, one of Pinter's most famous works. BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE. Read more here...

All in all however, this is the Octagon roaring back on form, and another triumph for Babych in his final season. When Pinter is done this well, it continues to enthrall, fascinate, and trigger debate. The man himself would, doubtless, be thrilled. WHAT'S ON STAGE Read more here...

If you're already familiar with this work you'll probably either love or loathe it. However, this illuminating production, directed by Mark Babych, could well change any negative opinions about this contemporary masterpiece. It certainly did for me. MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS. Read more here...

Mark Babych has done a sterling job directing this production, proving just what a tough act he will be to follow. The BOLTON NEWS. Read more here...

In the intimacy of the Octagon, and amidst the claustrophobic clutter of Richard Foxton's stage design, it is performed in the perfect setting. LANCASHIRE EVENING POST. Read more here...

And here's the review from Clitheroe Advertiser. No link I am afraid but here it is in its entirety:

Harold Pinter’s innovative play, The Caretaker, first produced in 1960, marked an important point in twentieth century British drama, moving it in a completely new direction. It is one of those plays that anyone truly interested in the development of drama should see. That said, it is not an easy play to watch.

The dysfunctional characters, the enigmatic, repetitive dialogue and the lack of virtually all of the conventions of a ‘well-made play’ and the lack of a coherent plot, make it challenging. It is not comfortable to watch the brain damaged Aston (Matthew Rixon), the bad tempered, manipulative tramp Davies (Paul Webster) and the mercurial Mick (Jeff Hordley) go through a series of pointed and pointless exchanges.

The strong cast keep the audience gripped and particular praise must go to Matthew Rixon. His monologue in which he recounts his experience of mental illness and its treatment is spell-binding. He is helped by some excellent lighting effects by lighting designer Brent Lees. Richard Foxton’s design creates a wonderful sense of the clutter and sense of failure in the dingy room.

Director Mark Babych gives the Octagon another fine production, a worthy tribute to mark the death of Pinter last year. The Octagon’s next production is Looking for Buddy, a jazz musical by Alan Plater set on Tyneside.

This production is undoubtedly a resounding success, and one which, I’m sure, Harold Pinter would have been proud to have his name attached to. THE PUBLIC REVIEWS. Read more here...

This is an excellent production of a modern classic with exemplary acting all round, but hurry up and book because you only have three weeks to catch it. UK THEATRE. Read more here...

Thought and care taken with Pinter’s play. REVIEWSGATE. Read more here...

The Caretaker - Taking pictures

Managed to watch the second half of The Caretaker yesterday. I think it is something quite special and the cast (seeing as there is only 3 of them) act their socks off. The contrast between Jeff Hordley's volatile Mick and Aston's gentle slightly muddled nature work in brilliant contrast to each other with the wonder that is Paul Webster (how many lines can that man remember?) swinging between the two is gripping.

Matthew's (Aston) long monologue in the second act about his experiences of...well I won't ruin it for you...but let's just say his past experiences is chilling. Especially due to his beautiful, slightly bewildered and touchingly reticent delivery....wonderful stuff!

The Caretaker - rehearsal diary week 3

I have received the 3rd installment of Hal's (assistant director) rehearsal diary and from the sounds of it, it is all coming together. The set is also up and looks fantastic. I will try and post some photos of that too but anyway I will now hand over to Hal.

Monday 23rd February
I am away from Bolton doing a casting for a children’s play I am working on at the Bristol Old Vic. It is about adventurers, dinosaurs and cave men; a little different from Pinterland!

Tuesday 24th February

Matthew Rixon (Aston) and Paul Webster (Davies). Image: Joel Chester Fildes

I’m back and things are looking promising. A weekend of rest mean there is a new confidence in the room. We go through Matthew’s long speech and it is beautifully delivered. He has a wonderfully sensitive touch. The main worry during this long section is where to place Paul (Davies). We work this out after some experimenting. I spend the rest of the morning with Jeff (Mick) going over his lines in the second half and talking over the difficult final scene. We try out his speech in this scene a couple of different ways. It requires a huge burst of passion, and we try to unlock the true emotion that lies within this rant. Progress.

The final moments of the play are examined throughout the afternoon. There is a plethora of darkness, pathos and desperation in these few minutes. It is important to judge them carefully. I feel there is a significant step forward. We re-position Paul, and Mark makes a few comments. More to discover, but it is certainly going in the right direction.

In the last hour or so we run our second half for the first time. It flows reasonably well – but plenty still to get our teeth into during the coming days.

Wednesday 25th February

Paul Webster (Davies). Image: Joel Chester Fildes

Our first run is the order of the day. In attendance was Andy Smith (Sound) and Brent Lees (Lighting), as well as James, a tutor from Active 8 Youth Group. How was it? Not bad at all. Quite a few notes are given by Mark. He asks for more youthfulness and play from Jeff. Generally the power shifts between the characters are exciting and surprising. There are quite a few moments to examine, and the pace needs a bit of a lick on it. Decisions to make. Still plenty of room for improvement.

During the afternoon we develop Mick’s character. Jeff is now finding a lightness of touch, an arrogance and twinkle in his eye. It is thrilling! He is daring, risking and enjoying himself. Come 5pm it is bag time again. It is frantic and quick. Maybe this will work. Finally we revisit the final scene of the play. Energy in the room is starting to waver, but it has been a long day.

Jeff Hordley (Mick) and Paul Webster (Davies). Image: Joel Chester Fildes

Thursday 26th February
A big breakthrough day. Our run this morning feels a little slow and mechanical. Mark’s big note is to relax our approach to the rhythm of the piece – to place our focus more on the actor’s instincts and being less ridged on the honouring of the pauses and dots. With Pinter’s musical beat in our subconscious maybe it is time to experiment. This unleashes a new overall energy in which the actors feel released.

Paul Webster (Davies). Image: Joel Chester Fildes

Jeff and I spend the afternoon playing with this licence to thrill! It is rip-roaring fun! The time is spent hammering out clarity, and we experiment with intentions. Back in the rehearsal room things are starting to really fly. The electricity is well and truly back!

Friday 27th February
The excellent work of yesterday continues throughout a vibrant morning session. We have a bash at Mick and Davies’ first scene which is turning into huge fun. Andy (sound) records some of the rising footsteps and mumbles from the stairwell. We then plot in the music for the production which Mark and Andy have thoughtfully selected. It adds an extra layer of intensity and a strange sense of beauty. I want to get myself a personal copy! The afternoon run is pleasing enough. Next week is production week, when we hope the production will reach the next level.

Paul Webster (Davies) and Matthew Rixon (Aston). Image: Joel Chester Fildes

Print of the Week

The lovely people at Arts About Manchester distribute all of our print (as well as other services too numerous to mention) but they also encourage venues with lovely accolades such as Print of the Week. Well guess who was this weeks winner....well (she says bashfully) it was us. Here's what they had to say (blush, blush)

And the most innaccurately named yet highly sought after honour goes to.....

The Octagon Theatre, Bolton for The Caretaker and Looking for Buddy, both of which are designed by http://www.dna.tc/ (cue massive cheers and applause)!

As you should hopefully be able to see (despite the poor quality of the photo) the A5 flyers sit nicely in the racks, with the crucial information (like the name and date of the show) clearly visible and eye-catchingly presented alongside The Octagon's logo.

The front of the flyer also includes the ticket prices and booking options, helpfully divided into "call", "click" and "vist", as well as an additional detail to add extra appeal to each production. Looking for Buddy has a shiny "World Premiere" star and The Caretaker flyer incorporates a great quote from The Independent.

The back of the flyer is neatly divided into four sections. The top one contains information about the show, including a clear age reccomendation. The second has information such as times, prices, and "special diary dates", which is a great touch and refers to both bargain nights and special performances like meet the director events and BSL interpreted performances. The final section repeats the booking information shown on the front of the flyers. It is the third section, however, that really made these flyers stand out this week. This section (in blue) tells the reader what the next show at The Octagon will be, effectively promoting two shows in their print for the price of one!

Sally Boyd, the Audience Development Manager at The Octagon Theatre, Bolton has gracefully shared the glory and given credit where it is due to Lee at DNA for his work on the design and Joel Chester Fildes and William Chitham for the images.

I would not only like to thank Lee, Joel and Will for their sterling work but also my mum, husband, the Golden Buddha and the Tyne Bridge for making this possible [sob!]...

The Caretaker - rehearsal diary week 2

Monday 16th – Wednesday 18th February
We thunder through the second half of the play at a pace. Monday sees Mick terrorising Davies with an electrolux – a thrilling scene that will ultimately be played out in the dark. Paul (Davies) practises this section by doing it with his eyes closed. His willingness to throw himself around the rusting set is astounding! Jeff (Mick) does a great sound effect of the electrolux in the absence of the soundtrack! He unleashes an energetic sense of charming chaos to this scene to the immense satisfaction of all in the rehearsal room. I spend quite a bit of time line bashing with Matthew (Aston) during the long afternoon.

Come the evening Jeff, Matthew and I retired to the pub and talked through ideas for the brother’s back-story. Pinter gives you so little about their relationship, yet a huge amount in their shared slight smile in Act Three.

Tuesday is a long line learning day for me! I have Jeff for much of the day. We work in the main house and hammer home a couple of scenes. We then work on some speeches – especially his rant to Davies which begins: ‘you’re stinking the place out’. The best way to gain clarity within this tirade of sales talk was to break it down into much smaller sections and find different energies within them. It is a brilliant section, which I personally love. Jeff is certainly starting to get to grips with it.
I later work with Matthew on his long monologue on electro-therapy. We discussed the process of this therapy and the treatment for manic depression or mental illness around this period. I had watched some footage of this kind of therapy recently – it was truly horrific viewing.
Wednesday leads us to the end of the play. Paul’s desperate, sad mumblings are spine tingling, and this was just the first bash at it. I spend more time during late morning working sections with Matthew and then Jeff in the main house. Scripts are beginning to disappear from the rehearsal room. Our hard work is paying off!

Now with the play covered once through we are planning to go through it all again. Each time we revisit scenes more layers of meaning, humour and invention are unpeeled. The next couple of days should be very exciting room in the rehearsal room.

Thursday 19th February
Today was dedicated to Aston and Davies’ scenes. Their banter at times is childlike in its simplicity, and there is such a difference in rhythms; Davies being a swirling tornado of energy and unrest, against Aston’s stillness. The first scene is especially intriguing to watch. The ignorant audience have to try and work out what is happening. Paul and Matthew’s interplay is a delight. Mark (Director) nudges them forward with some careful observations. The language and rhythm are really starting to fizz. Much more to come though.

Back in the main house during the afternoon, Jeff and I look at Mick’s character journey. There is a surprising amount of compassion within Mick in contrast to his tough exterior. His use of language is dazzling, and asks for a lot of vocal clarity and control from an actor. Jeff prowls around the stage as we attack some of the speeches.

Friday 20th February
I oversleep my alarm this morning, but manage to ride the 540 bus down to the Octagon just in time to start rehearsals. Matthew and I go over and over his long speech. He is essentially there on the lines now, and we try varying the speed of delivery. A line that comes up in discussion between us Aston’s admission: ‘I laid everything out in order, in my room, all the things I knew were mine, but I didn’t die’. This fascinating line gives us a potential insight into the internal workings of the character. Being surrounded by junk in the flat suddenly takes on a strange new meaning…Back in the rehearsal room Paul, Jeff and Matt embark on more bag snatching from Act Two. The tension and level of non-verbal communication is building.

Mark is very strict on observing the pauses properly and accurate with the text. This attention to detail helps gives the ‘elecrolux’ scene with Mick and Davies a pinging rhythm. The introduction of real sandwiches seems to make an incredible difference to the scene. Jeff (Mick) starts to relax into the zippy interplay. Amazing how a bit of bread can unlock so much!

Post-mid afternoon tea break, (Matthew is especially keen on his tea), we work on Mick and Davies’ scene in Act 3. Discussions on the best way to play the scene are at the forefront. Power and status shifts are explored. This is a scene where perhaps Davies perhaps seals part of his fate with his loud mouth. Plenty of energy buzzes around the room for a Friday afternoon. With another weekend for the good work of the last couple of days to settle, Week Three should be a treat.

Images: Joel Chester Fildes