Noise Off Review

There is something to be said for a properly executed farce. While many local theatre productions border on the farcical very few actually execute this comedy genre effectively. In fact most of the exposure we have to farce in this city comes directly from politico and media gaffes. But I digress.

Melanie Gilpin and Bernard Callaghan, have undertaken the production of Noises Off, a lauded British farce that has had successful runs in both The West End and Broadway. Written by Michael Frayn, the play explores what goes on behind the scenes of a rapidly unraveling theatre production. The backstage becomes the center stage as we get a glimpse into the very complex lives our actors lead. And when we say complex, we mean completely dysfunctional and hilarious to watch unfold. There is such joy in watching the misfortune of others, especially when said misfortune is brought on by complete disregard of propriety!

The local cast and crew have done an amazing job of presenting the chaos that can take hold over a poorly organized production. Clearly a lot of work has gone into making the orchestrated appear spontaneous; and the hard work has paid off. Noises Off is an absolute treat. The characters, which are caricatures of pompous or spacey actors, are played to a T by the talented ensemble cast that Melanie and Bernard have put together. While the characters themselves are well written, each one of the cast members has done an amazing job of bringing those words to life. It is worth noting that even though this is a theatrical debut for a several members of the cast they have risen to the occasion, especially with regards to comedic timing which is spot on throughout the production.

Noises Off is playing at The Theatre Guild of Ancon, a community theatre that, regardless of budgetary constraints, is consistently turning out quality English language productions. Noises Off is a great example of the superb quality of theatre that can be produced locally, when you have a quality script and a dedicated cast and crew.

Noises Off provides a wonderful opportunity to spend a night out and support local artists that are working hard to create more culturally rich activities in our tiny city. It will be playing at the Theatre Guild from August 12 to 14th at 7:45pm.

For more information visit: noisesoff-ancon.com

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