UNDER THE STARS by Richard Crane Director: Charlie Cook Altringham Little Theatre A little-known comedy play, Under the Stars, is the story of two leading characters, contracted as understudies in a West End production of a classical tragedy. This contemporary time period play was first encountered by Cook (Director) twentyfive years ago when he was cast in the role of Charles. The play began as the curtain opened to reveal two striking spotlights over Stella, played by Kathryn Fennell and Regina, played by Victoria Johnson as they were rehearsing their lines in their dressing room, where the play was continuingly set. The opening scene encapsulated the audience immediately with the use of lighting and scripted language, spoken with confidence and great diction by Fennell and Johnson. Both characters were rehearsing in front of the assistant director Charlotte, played by Rachel Barrington (Debut ALT performance). The script has this role as a male, Charles, but was adapted in order to be played for Barrington. Stella is a method actress, desperately trying to make her break and get onto the stage, but becomes increasingly frustrated when the ‘real actress’ Trixie, voiced by Cherrill Wyche, continues to perform on stage. She has dreams and aspirations and you could see the portrayal of emotions coming through from Fennell. Playing alongside Stella is Regina, her cynically practical opposite. Regina is the understudy for the Dame, voiced by Janet Reidsma. Regina has understudied the role of the Dame for twenty-five years, aptly the same duration as when the Director last played a part in this play, yet has never had the opportunity to perform. Humorous lines were strongly delivered throughout the performance, resulting in casual laughter from the audience. I particularly loved Johnson’s portrayal of the character as I instantly felt a connection with her due to her likeability, passiveaggressive tones and she was very relatable. As the days continue with the Duo forced to listen to the production on stage via an intercom at the rear of the dressing room, you see these characters form a closer relationship, comparable with close work colleagues – they laugh, they love and they become sarcastic with each other.
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