Peter Shaffer’s double bill, written in the 1960s, shows its age, especially in The Private Ear which also needs severe pruning.
Socially inept Bob has invited Doreen round for dinner but makes the mistake of having his obnoxious friend, Ted, around to give moral support. All does not go well.
The shyness of first dates is beautifully realised but the play’s humour only raises smiles rather than laughs. However the fine performances from the three actors are to be enjoyed.
Black Comedy is a different kettle of fish. Its farcical plot, following a main fuse blowing, enables the audience to observe the hilarious antics of a group of characters feeling their way around a pitch black room even though the stage is actually flooded with light.
For that is the play’s conceit – lights on the characters are in the dark; lights off they can see.
An excellent cast triumph, moving with sharp precision and timing as they grope their way across the stage. They all work hard and their performances are rewarded with full bodied laughter.
However some of the characterisation is a tad caricatured and, in one case, firmer direction is needed to check over active body movements.
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