Denys Edwards Players’ Shakers – 2 August 2024, Dronfield Civic Hall
Review by Sue Curr.
For their latest offering Denys Edward Players chose to bring John Godber and Jane Thornton’s dynamic and extremely witty “Shakers” to life. And bring it to life they most certainly did in spades.
Set in the lively environment of a 1980’s cocktail bar. The play takes place over one evening, closely focusing on the interaction between the four waitresses who work there and how they interact not only with each other but a variety of customers.
In this production brought together by director Mark Harris, we witnessed an extremely sharp, witty, humorous commentary on the everyday lives and struggles of the four female waitresses who work there. And it worked perfectly.
The narrative revolves around Adele – played by Ellen Holliday; Mel – played by Ria Westhead; Nicky – played by Kate Spivey; and Carol – played by Kate Parking. Each actor in turn bringing their unique stories and perspectives to the fore via their interactions with each other and the various customers they serve.
Shakers is a piece that relies heavily on the actors ability to be able to switch quickly, seamlessly and believably between their main character role and those of the myriad different types of customer who frequent the bar. From rich, arrogant socialites to drunken, rude men full of sexual innuendo and everything inbetween.
All four actors not only did so and at speed, they each of them did so in such a way that it kept the story flowing fluently. As a team their performance was faultless, individually each actor in their own right were simply put – outstanding.
Each one of them portrayed all their characterisations with a depth worthy of any professional stage, more so when highlighting their resilience and camaraderie in the face of their often challenging circumstances.
As director Mark Harris’ direction is very imaginative: from the use of 80’s music to segue from scene to scene was sheer genius, adding both vibrancy and an air of nostalgia to the piece, to drinking out of imaginary pint glasses and everything in between. Mark kept the action sharp thus ensuring that the actors pace remained brisk and transitions smooth.
As a result the audience was totally engaged from beginning to end simply because the comedic and dramatic timing, which is crucial for a play that blends humour with more serious undertones was executed smoothly and sensitively.
The minimalistic yet effective set, allowed the focus to remain on the actors’ performances at all times. The cocktail bar setting was recreated with just enough detail to be believable, without overwhelming the small stage space and again it worked perfectly. The simplicity worked in favour of the production thus ensuring that the rapid character changes and interactions were both fluid and believable.
Godber and Thornton’s script is witty yet filled with poignant observations and laugh-out-loud moments. It creates a dialogue that is both natural and relatable across the board from getting drunk on a Saturday night, pregnancy scares and trying clothes on in C&A and more.
This piece but moreover this cast captures the essence of everyday, authentic, conversations between friends and workmates perfectly. In this production Mark Harris and his very, very talented cast have brought together a production in which believable, relatable, authenticity shines through in every scene.
Shakers is a captivating, laugh out loud, must-watch for those who appreciate theatre that resonates on multiple levels. And I for one cannot recommend that you grab a ticket highly enough if you still can before the run ends.
