Writer & Director: Derek Murphy
In the gorgeous setting of Bewley’s Café Theatre there was an excited audience, murmuring in anticipation. Notable hits played softly in the background of a busy theatre. The stage was modest, with a white bench centre stage.
We welcome our leading man (Brian Gallagher) from behind the audience where he is searching for his internet date, Wendy (Georgina McKevitt). Gallagher plays the role of a ‘desperate loner’ far too well, often setting the audience off into fits of giggles. Wendy appears from backstage, and we immediately become aware she has some sort of compulsive condition, cleaning her hands repeatedly, and swearing like a sailor. Wendy doesn’t date well, and that is humorously clear from the off.
The two, dysfunctional daters meet at a park, having found one another on an internet site; and almost immediately, Wendy confesses she has pepper spray, moreover she is NOT afraid to use it. We follow their relationship over what seems like several months, and begin to warm to Wendy’s harsh, somewhat robotic nature. Gallagher and McKevitt bounce off one another like ping pong balls, and the comedy, though sometimes black, did not disappoint in its delivery. McKevitt is a force to be reckoned with, all that sass and wit busting out of her like a volcano; she is a scene stealer and a pleasure to watch.
Director, Derek Murphy is clearly a gifted writer and comedian. The play had some super creative transitions, which meant that time wasn’t wasted between scenes. The play, though short, packed a punch. I would have liked it to be longer, and for the audience to go on more of a journey with the characters, as to me it felt rushed. The use of some background noise, such as dogs barking in the distance, children laughing, birds chirping would have helped the audience immerse themselves more. Especially as sometimes the 4th wall was broken and the audience would play bystanders in the park or café.
If you find yourself with a spare hour at lunch and want to watch some great actors in a short but funny play- look no further!
Runs until Feb 22nd 2025.
The Review's Hub Score
Big Actors, Small Parts
