How does a family come to terms with a young daughter and sister who increasingly withdraws into the world of fantasy by having long conversations with her toy clown? And, how can a 43 year old bachelor looking for a comfortable life face marriage to a vibrant 19 year old with no domestic skills, while trying to manage a terrible fear of mothers-in-law?
Peter Caddy and Jade Bradley preparing for Saturday evening
These are the themes explored by two One-Act plays to be performed at the Roxy on Saturday night at 7.30pm by the Inverell Theatre Company, in a joint collaboration with the North West Theatre Company based here in Bingara.
The first play, ‘Conversations with a Clown’, is a 70-minute play about Canny – a 14 year old, disturbed teenager at odds with everyone. Boswell, the toy clown that was a gift from her late father, used to talk to her. Canny has insulated herself against reality, confiding only in her clown. Her brother Mike inadvertently forces her out of her fantasy world and Boswell becomes silent. Canny is pushed over the borderline into insanity – but there is one comfort – Boswell begins to converse with her again……….
This play unearths a real acting talent in Maggie Thomas, about to audition for NIDA, whose performance as Canny is a tour-de-force. There are touches of humour, pathos and eventual tragedy in the play, which is directed by Jade Bradley.
Bailey Thomas and Maggie Thomas rehearsing their roles in ‘Conversation with a Clown’
The second play, ‘Careful Rapture’, is a rollicking comedy about Ted Desmond, a middle aged bachelor searching for someone to share his life with. However, life experiences have rendered him scared senseless of mothers-in-law. He becomes involved with 19 year old Peggy Bowers, and plans to marry her. But Ted needs to be assured that her mother Joan will be amicable. The plot thickens as Joan devises a scheme to end the disastrous union.
This is a very funny play – and the perfect vehicle for popular actor Peter Caddey as Ted. Peter, as we well know, has a great taste for comedy and he is well supported in this 40 minute romp by a terrific cast headed by Jade Bradley as Peggy. The Director is Narelle Kennedy.
Intermission will be taken in the Roxy Café, where a finger food supper will be served, tea and coffee will be available and a bar will be open. Following the second play, slices and tea and coffee will be available back in the café.
A reminder that the first play begins on Saturday at 7.30pm sharp.
This program is both highly recommended, and great value.
Ticket prices are $30 for adults, with $25 for Concessions.
Book online or by contacting the Bingara Visitor Information Centre on (02) 6724 0066.
Email – Bingara Visitor Information Centre or call in to the Visitor Information Centre.
