And No More Shall We Part by Tom Holloway

The Griffin Theatre once more brings intense entertainment to the people of Sydney. And No More Shall We Part is playing at the SBW Stables Theatre until 3 September.
This was a very memorial production, one that will stay with me for some time. It was heart wrenching and extremely moving.  It is the story of Pam and Don's life as they make a painful decision to say goodbye after a lifetime together.  You need to take tissues with you! As Sam Strong (Director) explained after the production they did cut 15 minutes from opening night as they realised just how intense it was and how it affected the audience and felt it was a little too much for some people. I know exactly what he meant, there are times in the play where I wanted it just to move on, for some relief.  The intensity is broken up with lighter comical scenes and it is not a performance that leaves you with total doom and gloom.  You will be surprised about how you feel at the end. It is extremely well written and won the 2010 AWGIE for best play. If you are in long term relationship there were many occasions where you will relate to the dialogue.  It is a very humane intimate portrayal of their relationship.
Directed by Sam Strong who you might remember for Speaking With Tongues earlier this year; has picked another play which is technically challenging to the actors. Actors Linda Cropper and Russell Kiefel felt that the technical side to the play was more difficult than the topic; they were both drawn to the play by the brilliant writing. The affect the play has on the audience is a testament to their performance.

As I have said in previously reviews, I have not been able to fault a stage set in Sydney and once more I was surprised. If you have never been to the SBW Theatre, it is a very small space and not the normal shape, so that is a challenge in itself. There were jumps in time from present to past so convey this and the two rooms Victoria Lamb had an added challenge! Full mark though, it was perfect.  The costuming too was in keeping with the play, even though the changes were subtle,  Linda reminded me of my Mum when she is sick, just through what she was wearing.

I can understand that this will not be every ones cup of tea, but personally I am glad I went to see it.  Top marks!