Reviewed by Dave Smith
June 2013
Director Tony Moore did well with the choice of Tainted Love as Spotlight’s final production. Johnny Grim’s script provides for a range of feelings and moods as Julie, who hosts three friends to an oddly contrived gazebo viewing, gradually reveals her real and more profound purpose for calling them together.
Theresa Dolman, who played Julie, evoked the seriousness of the character and her situation, and brought the necessary range of emotions to the role. She was a stable foil to the others, especially when they were delivering funny lines. Her characterisation was convincing but at times the accent wavered a little.
Tina Cini was convincing as Sheila. Her timing was generally crisp and she made the most of her animated facial expressions. Joanna Webb played the foot-in-mouth, childishly ditsy Tess. She was expressive and lively, and was convincingly in her own world. Some of the best laughs came when she inadvertently blurted out hurtful observations about the others, particularly Julie and Sheila.
Maxine Grubel was wonderfully engaging as Carol. Her comic timing, sensitive ensemble work and entertaining physicality brought Carol to life. She showed as much dramatic depth and breadth as the role allowed, and always held the audience’s attention. Though not the plot’s central figure, she brought the rest together.
Spotlight have been an enthusiastic and legitimate outlet for contemporary local playwrights for years. It’s sad that they are finishing up. Let’s hope others are bold enough to pick up the baton
