(Lisa Bobbert)
A remarkable virtuoso performance, the like
of which I have not witnessed on a stage in years! (Review by Barry Meehan)
“Hello, wall!”
Shirley
Valentine the movie features on many people’s list
of top ten films of all time. Firstly, the script is remarkably crafted, and
secondly – Pauline Collins’ performance as Shirley is a wonderful piece of acting.
But as much as she brought the screen Shirley to life as a thoroughly
believable character, so too does Lisa Bobbert bring Shirley to life on stage
in a remarkable virtuoso performance, the like of which I have not witnessed on
a stage in years!
No matter whether you are male or female,
there is definitely a bit of Shirley in all of us. Did we make the right
choices and decisions at an early age? Have we allowed ourselves to fall into
an unsatisfying rut, leaving our childhood dreams in the dust, and – above all
- is it too late to do anything about it at this stage of our lives?
There are two halves to the stage show –
the first set in Shirley’s kitchen, where we find her making a meal (egg and
chips, which she actually prepares in front of us!) for her somewhat demanding
husband. We are regaled with very entertaining stories about her family,
friends, neighbours and school enemy turned friend Marjorie. Much as the laughs
come thick and fast, there is an underlying air of unease with her present
situation.
The second act takes place on a wonderful
beach set. Shirley is there courtesy of her friend Jane, who has won a trip for
two to an island in Greece. Jane abandons her as soon as they arrive, and
Shirley sets out on her journey of self-discovery, helped along by an adventure
on a fishing boat with the local taverna owner Costas, referred to by Shirley
as “Christopher Columbus and the island of Clitoris”.
Credit for this production, which is part
of The Playhouse 2019 Women’s Month celebrations, must go to the KickstArt team.
Unobtrusive direction is by Steven Stead, with sets by Greg King. But major
hat-off to Lisa Bobbert for a truly remarkable solo performance. We are indeed
blessed to have her in Durban. Sincere thanks to her for showing us how to
re-create ourselves by taking the plunge and living our lives to the full.
Unfortunately, there is only one more
performance of Shirley Valentine at
the Playhouse tonight (Saturday August 10) at 193h0. Tickets – if they are
still available - range from R120 to R150 and can be bought at the Playhouse
box-office – phone 031 369 9596/40 – or online and at Pick n Pay outlets via
WebTickets (the customer support line is 086 111 0005).
If you miss it here, look out for it if it
ever comes to your part of the world! – Barry Meehan
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