Winter Warmers *** 1/2

Melville Theatre’s ‘Winter Warmers’ are back again each evening until 22^nd July at their Stock Road theatre in Melville.

The warmers this year were three very good plays.
            ‘But yesterday’ *** by Jimmy Chin was directed by Brenda Stanley. It has two very subtle story lines, which unfortunately lost to most of the audience. It is the tale of a minister and his wife (Judy Pinnock excellent) nearing retirement and looking back at their relationship with their son. However the relationship isn’t what it seems.
            Most of the cast struggled to cross the divide between mentally reading the lines and becoming the character. This play called for emotion and credibility but I am sorry to say that both were weak. Part of the story which called for an argument, in rehearsals perhaps really have a go at each other and then pull back a little on the stage.

            ‘Lunch Hour’ **** is a comedy by John Mortimer and was capably directed by Connie Ord. It is the tale of a middle aged man (Peter Kirkwood) who has managed to chat an office girl (Sharon Thomas) into a lunch-time ‘quickie’ at a nearby Kings Cross hotel.
            Because the story takes place in 1960, one couldn’t simply just take a room for an hour or two, especially when everyone was vetted for marriage by the receptionist, so the man concocts a story as to why his wife is coming down for Scarborough to see him. Unfortunately he doesn’t tell his lunchtime ‘partner’ and she becomes very upset about the whole affair. The hotel manageress (Diane Drew) tries hard – too hard – to help them enjoy their stay. Will the consummation take place before time runs out?
            Excellent acting, you could really feel the frustration!

            ‘Jamie’s Chooks’ **** ½ is a home grown script, which was directed by the writer Vanessa Jensen.
            Kate (Jodie Hansen) is a keen cook and needs, with the help of her pal Julia (Kristie Chorley) to help out a friend Toby (Rachel Leonhardt) make a meal for her potential in laws. All the complications of cooking arise and only become worse when yuppie Tara (Rebecca Brennan) appears on the scene.
            There is a great deal of fun in the script, with a good twist in the story. Loved the idea of putting your characters on pedestals, but a small suggestion, perhaps make Kate, the story teller, move around more. Great play.
            Well directed and very well acted.

            For all of the plays the scenery was minimal but effective. Good sound effects and lighting.