By Peter Kemp
Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre’s May production was Terence Rattigan’s The Deep Blue Sea.
The play is about one day in the lives of Hester Collyer, her husband Judge Willian Collyer, her lover Freddie Page and people from her block of flats.
A well-produced and directed play with a high standard of acting from all the players.
Hester Collyer was given a superb performance by Angela Glennie who caught the finer nuances of the character. Her scenes were excellent, and the audience really felt for her in her dilemmas.
Her husband, High Court Judge William Collyer was given a stunning performance by Phil Lambert. His personality came across as a gentleman es too be expected of the character. His delivery was good and his scenes with Hester were a delight.
Hester’s lover Freddie Page, was played by Ben Freeland. Hester was known to the other tenants as Mrs Page. Freeland gave an amazing performance as Freddie, an out of work pilot who did not know what the future would hold. A remarkable interpretation of a man not sure of himself. Freeman caught the character as envisaged.
Mrs Elton, the landlady, was played by Lisa Upton. A good performance of the character catching all the fine points of such a role. The neighbours Philip and Ann Welch were given great portrayals as the neighbours who discovered that things weren’t always what they seemed.
Mr Miller, the struck off doctor, was well played by Tim Murphy. He came to Lady Collyer’s aid when most needed and gave a great feel to the role. Ian Frost was Jackie Jackson, a friend of Freddie’s who gave some advice to Freddie but did not wish to become too involved. Frost kept up the standard of the evening adding to the enjoyment of the audience to the production.
A wonderful evening of theatre from Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre and one that makes me realise that you don’t have to go far to see a good theatrical production.
