It was sheer joy to emerge from the current “Covid-Age” and witness a pair of one-act plays from Wings2Fly. With a mere six day rehearsal block both the junior and senior presentations were quite remarkable. “Orange is the new Glass” was a whimsical collection of sketches through which a hotchpotch of characters from both fairy tale and fable strut their stuff. Amelia Trott as “Mother Goose” provided the common link as a television reporter. Amelia demonstrated mature stage presence and immaculate timing throughout. Her voice was well modulated and she addressed us with clarity and certainty. Similarly, Joshua Elford as “Prince Charming” took command of his role with admirable confidence. Sophia March as “Rapp-unzel” did well with her change of character, whilst Marsha Zabanias as the Witch “Barbara” wasn’t all that wicked! She, like all her fellow cast members, stayed true to her character and displayed consistent concentration throughout. Saachi Thakur as “Officer Tortoise” captured the affection of the audience with her snail like processions across the stage. Changes to the minimalist set between scenes and cast movement was subtle and well managed throughout.
The director, Alicia Zorkovic, had schooled her young cast well and the outcome was a lively, well paced and most entertaining revue. Well done all of you!
“That’s not how I remember it!” The senior cast captivated the audience with a “Back to the Future” themed piece. In order to get their reluctant child to go to bed parents “Lola” and “Barry”, convincingly portrayed by Emily Harwood and Tim Giumelli who worked together very well, agree to each recalling a version (or a series of versions) of how they met. Their wildly contradictory recollections take life and are played out by their younger alter egos. Ashlee Scott as “Young Lola” delivers a mature and competent performance, her diction is excellent. Byron Jeffery as “Young Barry” relishes his dorky and new to dating persona. He makes the most of his comic opportunities as does his rival in teenage angst and romance “Karl”, played with appropriate vigour by Rhys Bradley. They are well matched by Flynn Doyle as a very amusing multicultural exchange student. The audience best liked his take on the New Zealand accent. Lily Bratchell as “Jane”, Lola’s Mum, was delightfully over the top in giving loads of unwelcome advice to her daughter in the hilarious bathroom scene.
Director, Michelle Nightingale, has coaxed some excellent performances from her youthful and talented cast. Both plays were fine ensemble pieces and commitment to their success was evident from every individual player. I have no doubt that performances improved in the course of your short season. I am especially pleased to see boys and young men stepping up to be involved in this creative art.
Congratulations to everybody involved with this timely production. It was quite special. I really enjoyed my late afternoon at the theatre.
