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Brighton Fringe 2010

Jubilate!

Rosalind Adler

Venue: The Marlborough Little Theatre

Festival:


Low Down

Rosalind Adler takes on the challenge of playing multiple roles as she focuses on how much belief can take over people’s lives and how it affects others around them. Anna is the centre of this hilarious production as the person with an unshakable belief system she wants to share with all.

 

Review

This was a very strong piece to watch from Rosalind Adler as she took on multiple roles in a play that focussed on how one woman’s strong faith affects all around her.

Using a simple set of a desk, chairs, chest of drawers and a hat stand, she managed to change the intimate stage of the Marlborough Little Theatre into five very different locations, ranging from a church hall to a council estate. Not only that, but the deliberate and precise way she changed into five different women in front of us was simple and so effective, that you instantly forgot it was just one woman you were watching.

A single red light was prominent throughout the whole piece, very likely to indicate an inner passion that all these women craved or suppressed. But as it developed, it became clear that the red light was there to show a darker twist to the show, as little by little, each character revealed a somewhat darker side to them in a subtle and suggestive way. This was handled with extreme sensitivity and care and drew the audience in, making a good journey from the extreme light-heartedness of the show at the start.

Each character Rosalind created was well rounded and very enjoyable to watch. The starting point of course being the dominant lady at the crux of this piece, Anna. The way she took each self development course using the mix of sexuality (having an obsession with her legs and claiming to have a very active sex life!) and her faith in God. Each line that was delivered was subtle and hard hitting at the same time. Occasionally there were times that the lines were rushed for this character, but it did not distract from the fact that this was a woman who was out to change the world and wanted everyone to share her vision.

One other character that was a complete contrast was a lady who lived on the estate called Cheryl. This lady was rough around the edges, but had a good heart as she tried to bring up her children alone. Rosalind challenges stereotypes here, but doesn’t offend with her interpretation of this type of character, merely creates a different type of comedy. That is, a more full on and brash style as opposed to her earlier subtlety of Anna. Cheryl’s personal journey was endearing to watch despite this brash and loud personality, because she was grateful for Anna helping her with her wayward son. However, the brashness fades when the tables turn on her despite Anna’s help.

Other characters you will see are Pat, whose husband doesn’t like her to be in the house or like to see her do housework, a new age hippy who celebrates finding her inner sexuality and Deborah – a Christian cleaner at the church hall who has the hard task of looking after her ill mother.

Each monologue delivered by these women were heartfelt and well linked to create a good storyline. This is definitely a show worthwhile seeing.

 

Published

Show Website

www.rosadler.com