OPENING night of Radio Plays “LIVE” last Saturday, the first of five performances to be presented by the Mansfield Musical & Dramatic Society (MMuDs) was warmly received by the audience who frocked up as was the tradition.
On arrival at the Mansfield Performing Arts Centre patrons were subject to the “fashion police” on the lookout for the best dressed.
This was the first time that MMuDs has presented radio plays which is a departure from its usual plays and musicals.
Producer Roger Nolan and assistant producer/director Laurel Lawrie, both with a wealth of community radio experience and involvement with previous radio plays at Radio Mansfield recreated the golden age of radio for the audience.
Penned by local writers and performed by many familiar faces from previous productions, the three short plays each portrayed different scenarios and offered many laughs.
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Simone Boyd as the narrator across all the plays provided a seamless transition between actors’ dialogue.
First up “The Date” written by Sandy Fairthorne explores the complexities and anxieties of dating.
The couple Sarah (Rachel Noble) and Oliver (Geoff Pitt) meet for a meal in a restaurant.
A clever technique used is the talking heads performed by Hayley Robinson and Jack Arrowsmith to allow the audience to be privy to the inner thoughts of Sarah and Oliver.
The sound/foley artist Ian Mallyon played a starring role with the constant clinking of wine glasses throughout the play and perfected the sound of crashing teacups in the second play.
His talents extended to also playing trumpet in the 27-piece Mansfield and District (MAD) Orchestra.
The orchestra led by conductor Monica Sketcher was a highlight of the evening and continues to show what musical talent we have in this community.
The second play “Old George’s Wake” written by Adele McCormack provided an entertaining take on the post-funeral proceedings at the nursing home “Whispering Pines”.
Hayley Robinson was a standout as the hearing-impaired elderly funeral attendee Margo bouncing off her more demure friend Beryl played by Alice Burton.
Jack Arrowsmith deserves a mention for his portrayal of the Rev Phillip Dundas, and as a relative of the deceased.
Interval provided an opportunity to admire the outfits of the audience – dressed to impress – with many donning lots of sparkles and sequins.
The final offering was “The Shady Bunch” written by Carol Lowden.
The play focused on the greedy blokey culture of a local council determined to develop the Pelican Towers in what is otherwise a peaceful bayside town.
Rick Lindsay is perfectly cast as the Mayor Swagger who is determined with his fellow councillors to push it through despite objections from residents.
The role is being shared with Tim Barber.
Standing up to the council proposal is Flamin’ June superbly played by a crowd favourite Val Kirley, and her friend Kerry Threadgold played by Deb Dodgson.
The audience interacted as instructed by Ian Mallyon although the mayor’s comments did attract unscripted boos.
Overall, it was a pleasant and entertaining night out showcasing the talents and skills of our local theatre group.
Two shows remain Thursday May 15 at 7pm and the finale Saturday at 7pm.
Tickets are available online at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1372053
