Great Expectations realized

Out and about
Many people gathered at the Theatre Guild of Ancon with great expectations these past days, and they were well met.
Charles Dicken’s most famous story about a boy name Philip “pip” and his journey through life survives its move into the 20th Century.

 The author’s twist of the story has made it fun for the audience to watch. Pip’s desire to turn himself into a “gentleman” , movie director so that he can get Estella’s attention was a refreshing innovation. The false glitter of the film world would have been a target for Dickens’ portrayal of human frailty. And with a movie theme running through the plot to have movie clips shown on TV in between acts was another personal touch, although some felt that a linking monologue, or front stage acting piece as in the early dance scene, might have done as well, particularly for those in the rear seats.

The young versions of Pip (Diego Riley) and Estella (Page Tazewell) played it very nicely, in fact young and adult Estella (Betty Chemier) were so well synchronized in their gestures and tone of voice etc. that it helped maintain the flow of the play. Other characters such as Pip’s brother in law Joe (Matthew Addis), Mrs Havisham (Nancy Niemi) and Biddy (Kari King) among the rest, were comic and enjoyable to watch and; especially Mrs. Joe and you’ll see why. Keep your eyes open.

Backstage people rarely get much recognition, but they were dynamic and did an excellent job in changing sets while the audience was entertained by the TV interludes
The Theatre at Ancon has had a face lift, which after 60 years the old lady deserved.
But the work, performed by volunteers, while covering up the cracks, has not obliterated the cozy atmosphere, bringing the audience closer to the action, and introducing what you might call the family touch.

This is amplified at the little patio bar where theater going friends gather before the action and during the intermission to exchange news, views and comments.
Don’t miss the opportunity to join them on April 29-May 1 and titillate your great expectations Curtain up at 8 p.m
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