Away With The Fairies (Bristol)

In a world where ‘quantitative easing’ can seemingly magic money out of thin air and those overseeing huge bank losses are rewarded with huge bonuses the existence of an invisible troll still seems slightly mad but only slightly.

Renowned economist Isobel (Jasmine Darke) who has escaped from modern life and now lives in a remote cottage in the Orkneys with Rufus (the aforementioned invisible troll). Meanwhile in London eccentric sculptress Stanley (Meg Whelan) and her straight-laced accountant daughter Barbara (Kirsty Cox) relationship struggles along with Barbara forced into the more paternal role as she deals with the free-spirited Stanley. The three women’s lives are intertwined when Isobel decides to search for a sculptor to produce a £500,000 new piece of art. Under the subtle direction/meddling of the mischievous invisible troll the women’s lives impact on each others in often surprising ways.

The strong all-female cast deliver the snappy dialogue with real energy. Kirsty Cox in particular is excellent as the put upon daughter as she has to deal with the two strong willed older women. Eleanor Fogg’s pacy direction alongside the scripts broadly drawn characters/scenarios gives the production the feel of a superior sitcom and it was refreshing to watch a play which had the primary intention of making the audience laugh rather than a play with just a few funny lines thrown in.

With a light comic touch Gill Kirk’s witty script manages to deal with exploring the complexities of human relationships, questioning the true value of money and art, while at the same time never forgetting make its audience chuckle.

Away with the Fairies plays at The Alma Tavern until 31 March.