Picture a nunnery and the arrival of an errant novice nun from another convent. Does she really belong there? What exactly is a nunnery for anyway?
Writer and performer Sadie Hasler stands out in this production by Old Trunk Theatre sounding variously like many classic characters from British films. The clarity of her parts is delightful and the message of her writing is clear.
This minimalist production made me chortle continually with some great, unexpected one-liners having been worked into the script and it has a lovely atmosphere. Clever use of simple costumes and props works well and does not obscure the message.
The nun's favourite thing is the Andy Williams Show viewed on a t.v. with reception so poor one of the nuns has to wear a coathanger as an ariel for them to see the show.
Edward Mitchell’s amusingly exploited gender swapping and his position as the universal male character who both causes and challenges the attraction to joining the order was quality and I found myself thinking hard about the stories that take people into such places.
All four actors work very hard and are rarely off the stage for long. If I could award a half star I would but can’t so it has to be three. It has to be said though that the venue didn’t help – footsteps above and people moving in and out of the audience space during the performance were distracting. Maybe it was “first show”, the time of day and a small audience that prevented the production being its best and later performances could find their legs. This production alternates with their other show, “The Bastard Children of Remington Steele”.
For those looking for a thought-provoking and happy-sad show, go see this. See it too if you are considering a career as a nun of either gender.
Runs 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 Aug. 15:30, £10/£9