The Algarveans present their first ever 10-minute Play Festival
“Speed dating for theatre enthusiasts!”
“Speed dating for theatre enthusiasts!” I heard during the intermission. And so it was – a succession of delightful urgent displays of talent and creativity – eight deliciously different and energy-packed performances in The Little Theatre, Sesmarias, Lagoa. A bit like a taster menu in a posh restaurant!
For followers of The Algarveans Theatre Group, it was fascinating to pick out talented newcomers amidst long standing members, and to see people stepping out of their comfort zones – from actor to director, from director to writer!
Sets being minimal, our focus was on the acting, the movement, the delivery of lines, the timing, the interaction with the audience. And we were not disappointed. The variety of short one act plays kept viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what was coming next. Fresh energy exploding onto the stage with a new story, a new twist, some bold new idea to tickle our fancy.
Getting into the minds of what actors are really thinking in The Craft with Peter and Nicola, directed by Trevor V. Playing the ultimate game of death in Up and Down with Zac and Ffion, written and directed by Sarah B. Attending the final school reunion in You Haven’t Changed a Bit with Gloria and Peter, directed by Bethany B. Listening to bitter sweet advice in The Actor and The Extra with Trevor, Alex and Minna, directed by Sarah S.
Getting to the bottom of the reason for the 3am Wake Up Call with Frank, Paul and Minna, directed by Alex M. Unleashing pent up emotions in No Surgical Stockings with Angela and Lisa, directed by Paul L. Colliding worlds in Two for Tea with Anne and Minna, written and directed by Angela T. Spoofing a well-loved oldie in Briefcase Encounter with Trevor, Lara and Ludi, directed by Frank R.
In the words of Peter Morris, the festival director: “Theatre thrives on creativity, collaboration and surprise. We hope this show reminds you how special live performance can be – fleeting, intimate and wonderfully unpredictable.” This festival fits exactly within The Algarveans’ mission: “To include, to encourage and to entertain.”
The Algarveans Theatre Group will be back in the Lagoa Auditorium on March 12-13-14 with a main stage production of “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change”. Auditions December 2 and 4.
By Madeleine Wheare
