Staged over three nights, An Evening of Pocket-Sized Plays featured six mini-plays written by resident playwright Phil Mansell. The event was a great success with tickets selling out within days of going on sale.
Each play was approximately 10 minutes long , with a cast of no more than three people and minimal set and props. The plays tackled a range of topics that were funny, touching and thought-provoking with a variety of settings including the back room of a charity shop, a celebratory drinks party and a bar in Spain. They production was in an intimate cabaret-style atmosphere with the audience sipping wine at tables with candle lights and nibbles. This provided a unique opportunity for people new to directing to try their hand, and they all agreed it was very useful experience.
One audience member commented that it was best night at the theatre they’d had for years. Another woman said she had become very emotional and was crying during the short play about a woman trying to cope with her ageing mother’s increasing forgetfulness.
It is hoped to stage a similar event next year with six new plays. Below are some photos capturing the 17-strong cast in action.
