Talking Heads, The Old Rep Birmingham Review – Theater and Tonic

The latest production of the old Talking Heads representative brought out two of Alan Bennett’s famous monologues on stage: Chip in sugar and Lens bedS Initially, the BBC series that broadcast late Thursday night, all you need is a quick Google to find that these monologues are made by some of the biggest names on British television. However, the old representative these two monologues were delivered by Elliot Archer and Michel Smithunder the guidance of Andrew crocker and Maura judgesrespectively.

Monologues are a unique form of art. They can look a lot like Marmite, like the audience either loves them or hates them. And there is a nervousness that enters something like this, especially when it is an amateur production that can really go in any way. Given these contractors, they have certainly coped with the texts that have been given to them, whether you are a fan or not.

Bennett’s monologues appeal to those who appreciate the nuance of daily conversation and humor found in the ordinary. His writing feels like the type of gossip you would share with your NAN, rich, anecdotal experience of stories that resonate with small but significant moments of life.

Chip in sugar

In this monologue we follow Graham Whitaker (Elliot Archer), a middle -aged man fighting mental illness as he watches his mother Vera, falls for the old flame Frank Turnbil; A predominant, old -school alpha man. Graham, feeling displaced, fights with the realization that he is no longer the center of his mother’s world.

Elliot Archer performs easily. His ability to pass between characters, embodying their different manners and voices, attracted the audience in history with warmth and authenticity. His depicting Graham’s vulnerability made his emotional turmoil

The topics of the monologue, although written and placed in the 1980s, remain strikingly appropriate today.

Lens bed

The second monologue delivered by Michel SmithIt makes a slightly worse but comedy turn. Susan, the disappointed wife of the village Vicar Jeffrey, is exhausted by the role of the obedient Christian husband. Her starting line, “Jeffrey is bad enough, but I’m glad I’m not married to Jesus,” puts the tone of a refreshing candid monologue for her struggles with faith, marriage and addiction.

Smith took a moment to fully settle in the role, with a few minor words, but after finding her rhythm, her performance was completely engaging. It embodied the sharp wit of Susan and the dry humor with impeccable comedy time, attracted to the audience throughout.

This Talking Heads production was a testament to Bennett Writing and The Power of Telling Stories. Elliot Archer and Michel Smith These complex characters with skill and nuance came to life, creating an evening of sharp humor, touching themes and compelling performances. Although monologues may not be to the taste of anyone, for those who enjoy stories aimed at character, pierced in realism, it was a compelling and rewarding experience of the old representative.

This is the first production of The Crescent Theater Company in The Old Rep.