Monday, 4 February 2019
Little Theatre:
If I Were You
by Alan Ayckbourn
Directed by Vaughan Leslie
Monday 18 February
- Saturday, 23 February
7.30pm
Tickets £6-10,
available here
Photos: Bruce Cutts
Rehearsals are progressing well for the Little Theatre’s February production, If I Were You, a comedy by Alan Ayckbourn. The play is about a couple, Mal and Jill, whose long marriage has hit the rocks. He is stressed out at work, is conducting a clandestine affair, and has fallen out with his teenage son. She suspects her husband’s infidelity, has had enough of his boorish behaviour, and is frustrated with her stay-at-home life.
Just when you think this is tragedy rather than comedy, there is a (heaven-sent?) intervention, and the couple wake up to find they’ve swapped bodies! Mal (in Jill’s body) now has to manage the home, and be a sensitive confidant to their daughter and son, and Jill (in Mal’s body), has to deal with the furniture showroom business, the mistress, and the abusive son-in-law!
Photos: Bruce Cutts
This sounds complicated (and it is!), but it makes for a hilarious denouement, with Mal and Jill now getting the chance to see things through the other’s eyes, with life-changing consequences.
Vaughan Leslie says he is having a great time directing the play, and really appreciates the brilliant support he’s getting from the cast and crew. The set design has been particularly challenging on the Little Theatre’s small stage, as the action switches back and forth between the Rodales’ family home and the furniture showroom – and has to look convincing for both. Three separate rooms have been squeezed on stage together, and quick set changes are effected by cunning use of lighting and sound.
Photos: Bruce Cutts
The actors are learning to negotiate the quick changes, and trying not to lose track of where they are. Like any farce, it can become a bit frantic! But by opening night, it is hoped they’ll know exactly what they’re doing!
The play runs from Monday to Saturday, 18-23 February, at 7.30pm. Tickets are on sale now, online at www.hblt.co.uk, or can be purchased in person from Innovation, Hebden Bridge. Hurry while stocks last!
Previously, on the HebWeb
The 39 Steps by Patrick Barlow, November 2018
'Allo Allo' - Sept 2018
Lovesong by Abi Morgan - May 2018
Gaslightby Patrick Hamilton - April 2018
Be My Baby by Amanda Whittington - Feb 2018
Roleplay by Alan Ayckbourn- Nov 2017
A View from the Bridge - April 2017
Spring and Port Wine - February 2017
Moonlight and Magnolias - September 2016
See also