Tuesday, February 20, 2007

"Teechers" - February 2007

Despite not being familiar with the piece, I thought I had a fair idea what to expect from this performance by Glasgow College of Nautical Studies drama students in the Citizens Circle Studio. I was however completely unprepared for the absolute riot of fun and energy it turned out to be. Although normally performed with a tiny cast of 3, this performance used a cast of 10 and I'd suggest it really benefited from this as it helped create a truly school-like atmosphere at times.
Some may say that the choice of show wasn't too demanding from a serious "acting" perspective of intense stares, furrowed brows and wringing of hands variety, but it more than made up for this in being a very technically challenging piece with so many members playing multiple characters (even with the extended cast), fast paced scene changes, direct narration to the audience, and the need for well honed comic timing - not to mention the inclusion of a song and dance number!

All of the cast were more than good - and from the very first scene our three narrators, Salty, Gail and Hobby (Scott Fletcher, Deidre Coghill & Laura Szalecki), had the audience eating out of palm of their hands. Scott Kyle as the central Nixon also produced an impressive performance while David McNay as the Mr Bronson-like Basford was in danger of stealing the show with every scene.

Overall this was a hugely enjoyable evening with more than a touch of a Scottish Youth Theatre atmosphere and tone about it (and that is very much a compliment for anyone in any doubt). However, it did become clear right at the end that these young students still have something to learn - when you get an audience response like that at the end of a show, please come back out for a second curtain call - you deserved it and we wanted to give you it...

10 Heckles

Anonymous said...

I'm glad you enjoyed the show, I was one of the actors (playing Doug/Pete Saxon and various others). We appreciate your kind remarks.

Anonymous said...

Hey, Mrs Parry here =)! or should i sayjust plain old Sharon Rooney now. Thank you so much for the feedback, and im so glad you enjoyed the show! So thanks again, for your kind words,

Sharon x

Waldorf said...

Thanks for taking the time to post your comments. We hope to see you all in future performances, and will look out for more from GCNS.

You might want to pass on to the College that they should support you guys a bit better. There's nothing on their website about Teechers or any future productions you've got in the pipeline. Might be worth doing something unofficial/personal if the College can't get their act (groan!) together.

Best of luck with your course.

Anonymous said...

Hey!
I just wanted to say thank you for your kind words. I was part of the cast as in some minor roles. I was so proud when I found this and pointed everyone else in the direction of it. I'm really pleased that you enjoyed our play, because at the end of the day thats what matters!

XxX Heather

Anonymous said...

hey, ToM here, I was workin on sound and a bit of lighting, and i have to say it was brilliant to work with the cast, I liive with Dave but even still it was a plesure, I was in creases every night and throught rehersals. In the great word ofdavethat was INSANE, great to hear such good reviews on a brilliant cast and show.
ToM

Anonymous said...

I'm Sharon Rooney's biggest Fan, she's amazing! The cast were amazing... so proud of them.

Anonymous said...

Hey!! Hobby here!! or should i say Laura. What a fantastic show to be a part of, if only we could do it all over again! Thanku very much for the great review-much appreciated and glad you enjoyed it

Hobby x

Anonymous said...

GCNS HND Acting and Performence are currently performing Alan AyckBourn's "Confusions" at the GCNS College Theatre. Running until Friday 23rd March.

Statler said...

Just as well you folks are good at acting and not doing courses in Marketing!

It's a bit short notice but if you can post info on performance times and how to get tickets etc we might make it along. I had a quick google and came up blank.

And if you haven't already joined the Scottish Theatre Forum (link on the right) you really should as they are always hapy to have groups promote performances and there is quite a focus on student theatre.

Anyway, Hope the show goes well.

Anonymous said...

Thursday and Friday evening at 7:30.
Phone the college at
+44 (0) 141 565 2500
I'be never personally done it this way but I'm sure you'll get somewhere. Otherwise turn up before a performence and try and get a ticket on the door. This should be possible but obviously is more risky.
Anyway, thanks for the tip about the Scottish Theatre Forum. I know what you mean about advertising but it really is nothing to do with us. It's very frustrating for all involved. Hopefully your point will be taken by someone at the college. :)