Infested With Talent

Old Town Theatre Company has produced yet another stunner of a production with a version of Swimming with Sharks by Michael Lesslie. It is a story of a young Hollywood executive who becomes the assistant to a big-time movie producer, who is the worst boss imaginable. Things finally turn around when the young executive kdnaps his boss and visits all the cruelties back on him.

This company never fails to amaze me with its commitment to detail. Everything was so professionally done, including a boiling kettle of water (or was it?) that had the audience on the edge of their seats.

You cannot produce a play like this without the calibre of actors OTTC has. David Howell gave a performance I haven't seen the like of for a long time. I could not fault his portrayal of the menacing and cruel Buddy Ackerman. The dialogue rolled off his tongue with ease and was word and accent perfect. His assistant, Guy, played by Cal Doughty, grew into the part as the play progressed to a gripping end. Together, with the wonderful acting ability of Laura Bowman, as Dawn Lockard, they all made for compelling viewing.

Director Julian Smith did a great job, as the plot and staging needed careful thought. The strong language that permeated the play didn't seem out of place, but may be a little too strong for some people. I feel I should just mention the makeup of two black eyes on Buddy's face, which under the lights, shone like silver. That said, OTTC left nothing to chance, with excellent music, lighting, scenery and props.

I can't wait to see what they do next - who but OTTC would even contemplate a production of the Elephant Man? I can't wait.

Audience Comment

OTTC encourages its audiences to comment on performances.

Trudi was kind enough to write, '"Great performance by the whole cast! My son is studying GCSE Drama and commented on how the show has provided him with inspiration. Thanks for a fab evening!"