Marriage is more than two people just liking each other and having a church wedding in a pretty white gown with lots of presents, as a young woman with learning difficulties has to be taught to appreciate. Her recently married brother, on whom she is dependent, tries to guide her in a relationship with a young man who has similar problems.
Their trials and tribulations, joys and jubilations are sympathetically explored in this heartening and relevant play. As Rhiannon and Darren take hesitant steps in their romance, their carers are encouraged by the wise Chinese saying that a journey of a 1,000 miles starts with a single step. Eloise Howe and Emyr John project an appealing simplicity and innocent longing for companionship that proves quite touching. Ceris Jones and Peri Thomas as the brother and his new bride provide strong support.
In this example of theatre serving a social need, Gaynor Lougher’s direction is clear and sharp, full of humour, never over-earnest. The thoughts of the lovers are given as soliloquies, reminiscent of diary entries, with the short scenes effectively linked by songs and chants.
The simple sunshiney-yellow setting is designed by James North, with musical direction by Chrys Blanchard. Hijinx is taking this play for people with learning difficulties, their relatives and friends and all who care in the community, to around 40 venues in Wales and England on an 11-week tour.
|
