Reviews

You Cannot Go Forward From Where You Are Right Now (Manchester)

In a society where communication is easier than ever before, have we forgotten how to talk? This is the question posed by David Watson’s contribution to A Play, A Pie and A Pint, a series of three new plays presented by Paines Plough in collaboration with Glasgow-based Oran Mor.

The play takes the structure of numerous short, sharp scenes, with three actors playing a variety of different characters. From a father and daughter’s awkward reunion in a pub, to a policeman reporting an RTA over a walkie-talkie to the heartless directions of a sat nav system, the play investigates communication and its effect on our relationships.

Directed by James Grieve, the stage is marked out by 5 standing microphones which border a table, which is alternately used as a sound desk for radio DJs, a hospital bed, or a table in a bar. Pop music intersperses with static, the sounds of a dog barking and radio chatter, to reinforce the idea that there is plenty to listen to, but less that we choose to connect with.
 
With each character extremely well acted by the accomplished trio of Rebecca Elise, Rachel Ogilvy and Jack Reid, every scene is intriguing and entertaining to watch. However, the scenes jump so quickly from one to another – with some lasting less than 30 seconds – that it becomes difficult to follow the dialogue, or understand its context. The style, which allows little room for reflection or engagement, only further reinforces the initial concept that we have too much going on to really focus on any of it.

An enjoyable play at 45 minutes long, the production is made even more palatable by its accompanying pie and pint. A charming way to enjoy the theatre, A Play, A Pie and A Pint will continue in The Royal Exchange’s Studio until Saturday 5th November. 

– Francesca Waite