Influence - Roleystone Theatre (a review of sorts)

As always, I commence this blurb with the disclaimer that I'm not the best reviewer in town. I merely feel that when I see something worth telling people about, then I do. So I shall hereforth twitter on. I attended the opening night of 'Influence' at Roleystone, this being my first visit to this theatre. Booking late, my partner and I had to sit on the front row, a place I try to avoid at all costs, however, it turned out to be a great spot, with the most comfortable chairs I've sat in for a long time.If the chairs behind, were as good as the ones we had, then patrons behinds are on a winner. Once we'd taken our seats, it was time to check out the set, and I have to say, that I was appalled, to discover it was every bit as good as the last two sets I've seen (Charlie's Aunt / The Miracle Worker). The backdrop mural (fantastic,) the attention to detail(the 'clocks' and the 'On Air' sign in the radio station etc.etc.) In terms of sets, the bar has been set very high throughout our local theatres, and I'd hate to be the judges, given the onerous task of picking a Finleys' winner from this years selection. Congratulations to the team that put this together. Wow! Footnote: You people have unwittingly, or quite possibly wittingly, made me rethink our sofa / coffee table setup for our forthcoming production. Maybe I'd be better off just removing the bar? Now there's a thought. As with the set, the lighting, costumes and sound were all swinging off the high bars. And so to the performances.... What can I say, except all on stage gave wonderful performances. Kim Martin(Ziggi), and Hayley Mayne Carmela)were terrific in the lead roles. Cassie Skinner's (Vivienne) excellent, with her 'rapid fire' delivery mid-play, as good as any I've seen. Steve Osborne's (Tony) and Lorraine Ragus(Connie,) gave convincing performances. Sharon Thomas's portrayal of 'Zehra' was a highlight for me, and finally my old friend Ray Condy who was equally convincing as 'Marko.' I'm not going to run through the story, suffice to say it's from one of our country's most highly regarde playwrights, so you know it's going to be quality. Well done to director Kim Martin and his team. The one query I have is why this play is running for such a short season? Seems a shame to have this standard of production on show for such a short time, but hey, that's just my opinion. To those who think Roleystone's too far away, providing your not on foot, your journey will be rewarded. cheers Johnny Grim A lad in sane prooductions