DIRTY DUSTING By Ed Waugh and Trevor Wood Directed by Linda McAlinden Droylsden Little Theatre This was my first visit to Droylsden Little Theatre, and it was clear from the outset that this is a passionate community theatre where the committee and volunteers truly care about both the craft of theatre and the upkeep of their venue. Although Dirty Dusting wasn’t originally part of the season, a last-minute change due to casting issues saw it brought to the stage - and what a fantastic decision it was. The play was a riotous success, providing the audience with plenty of belly laughs, a few tears, and a thoroughly entertaining evening. The curtain opened to reveal a wonderfully detailed office setting, which remained the backdrop throughout the performance. The set design, masterminded by Tracy Ireland and Tony Birch, was impressive and showed a real commitment to authenticity. Every little detail was considered, from the filing cabinets and signage to the hat stand, sink, and various office equipment scattered around. The space was busy, packed with props, which really contributed to the atmosphere and set the perfect scene for the comedy that followed. The lead role of Gladys Pitt, or “Madonna,” was played by Susan Stagg. Susan brought a wonderful energy and enthusiasm to the character, portraying Gladys with excellent comic timing and expressive facial gestures. Although her character initially hesitated in her newfound role, Susan’s performance was full of charm, and as the play progressed, she settled into the character’s awkwardness, keeping the audience laughing at every turn. Stella Hutchinson played Elsie Collins (or "Kylie"), another standout performance. Her diction, projection, and mannerisms were on point, and she portrayed her character, a death-obsessed woman, with a mix of eccentricity and relatability. What really impressed me was how Stella’s
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