Show: Boxing Clever
Society: Beaufort Players
Venue: Church of the Ascension Hall, Beaufort Road, Ealing
Credits: by Thomas Cobb
Type: Sardines
Performance Date: 17/11/2016
Boxing Clever
Andrea Richardson | 20 Nov 2016 00:51am
I was looking forward to seeing this original play from Beaufort Players. Myself and my guest have seen several of their productions and always been impressed. Regrettably, we were a little disappointed in this brand new production.
“Boxing Clever” is an original script by group member Thomas Cobb. As Playwright and Director, I imagine he had a tough job turning his vision into reality. The programme says he was inspired by a house move and the dramas that he experienced when using a self-storage company.
The set was very simple with the 4 doors of the storage unit on stage and the “office” for the staff of “Box Clever” on the right extension. Matt Tylianakis as Area Manager Scott and Gemma Robinson as his put upon Assistant Rachel set the opening well, introducing their relationship and Scott’s lazy, know-it-all attitude to everything. After that we there were various storylines threaded together involving two ex-partners, two thieves, and the security guard of “Box Clever”.
There were two main issues with this production. First was the lack of acting with the boxes – if a box is heavy, act like it is. Don’t carry it pretending it is heavy and then kick it with just your toe the next moment – be consistent. It was a little unrealistic for us.
Then there were the scenes with characters ducking in and out of the units and hiding behind doors, which are typical of many classic farces. Unfortunately these just didn’t work. They needed to be far slicker and quicker to make them effective but mainly they went on far too long. Some of the jokes fell flat unfortunately. I also spotted some inconsistencies in the script (ie: something that didn’t work in Act I suddenly worked in Act II). Overall the acting was good but there needed to be better characterisation.
We did feel bad we didn’t enjoy Boxing Clever more. I am sure many audience members might disagree with this and it is only the opinion of this reviewer. The concept was good and could have been really entertaining but unfortunately it was a little flat for us. Well done to all the cast and production team for their hard work on this production.
- : admin
- : 17/11/2016