Exploring themes of family, love and romance, this production aims to engage both people with learning disabilities and their carers in the same entertainment. Rhiannon is a young woman yearning for a relationship; she also has learning disabilities and is cared for by her older brother, Phil. Romance enters the drama early, with the projection of Phil and Rachel’s wedding onto the stage. Appearing as a very real experience, it immediately adds a dose of authenticity to the action.
Although the drama is driven by Rhiannon’s aspirations of romance, other issues raise alongside it make the production equally relevant for all. The contrasting reactions from Phil and Rachel to the burgeoning relationship between Rhiannon and her school friend, Darren, emphasises that this play is for everyone. While Phil is very cautious about Rhiannon’s declaration of love, her sister-in-law Rachel is instantly pleased. Simply, she is empathising with another’s luck at finding romance, not judging on whether it is an appropriate situation for her.
Emphasising this aspect nicely, Rachel gently applies a little make-up on an eager Rhiannon, making the current changes really visible. When Phil returns from work, Rhiannon’s declaration to him, “I’m a woman now!” touchingly completes the metamorphosis. Everyone in the audience can appreciate the meaning, because she isn’t defined as Rhiannon-with-learning-difficulties, but just as a woman. If anyone doubts this message, the chorus of Time Keeps Moving On, sang with plenty of vigour from the cast, confirms it.
Other points of view are also cleverly included, through Darren’s humorous narration of his parent’s attitudes; his father’s no nonsense approach, and his mother’s obvious need to shield him.
The simple set and originally scored music not only showcases the talent of the cast but also the quality of the production as whole. This play deserves a wide audience. A whole spectrum of people, especially those who have no experience of those issues, will enjoy and benefit from this energetic, but ultimately sensitive productions. A job well done. |
