David Farr and Simon Reade, new artistic directors of Bristol Old Vic look set to delight audiences further as they settle into their second year of direction. Jo Orton's classic 1960's comedy 'Loot' is said to be as witty as the work of Oscar Wilde. Born in 1933 into a childhood of economic deprivation, Orton failed his eleven-plus. However, his determination to better himself led him to develop a love of music, literature and the theatre. Sadly, his training as an actor introduced him to the man who would become his lover and later his murderer. Orton died aged thirty four years.

As the audience take their seats to the sounds of The Kinks, Smallfaces and other Sixties' pop chart groups, a screen rises, portraying a collage of memorabelia - reflecting this period during which the nation was called upon to 'back Britain' - and thus the play begins.

The action takes place in a Victorian style room. On the back wall, a framed slogan reads, 'Create for me a new heart O' God'. Centre stage, between a large sash window and opposite a commode is a coffin supported by two chairs. McLeavy's wife has died and her place of rest becomes the ideal place for son Hal to stash his proceeds from a bank robbery. Edward Hogg's characterisation of Hal is highly comical whose idiosyncrasies are reminiscent of the T.V. classic comedian 'Frank Spencer.' Hal often has difficulty expressing himself clearly and, bound by his Catholic upbringing, is 'unable to lie.'

Hal's truth is lost on Truscott, who is determined to uncover the crime he believes has been committed. RADA trained Clive Francis has a C.V. many actors would die for and he brings his wealth of experience to produce an excellent performance as a dense and sadistic detective. The stylised farcical comedy depends in no small part upon the actors' attention to precision breathing techniques, in which every member of the cast appears expert. Sometimes the play seems to offer a sequence of freeze frames and the audience holds their breath in bated anticipation, knowing what is about to come. Nurse Fay, played by Pooky Quensel, who has seen off seven husbands in ten years, sets her sights on newly widowed McLeavy. His naiviety renders him vulnerable and desperate as all around him reveal their dishonesty. Luke Jardine must also be commended for his portrayal of Dennis, who uses his work as an undertaker's assistant to provide an escape plan for himself and his good friend, grieving son Hal.

The play is short - ninety minutes - and moves along at a sparky pace. It certainly left the audience thrilled and satisfied on its opening night at the Bristol Old Vic. If this is the way the new directors are influencing theatre, Bristol audiences are in for a treat.

The Tick List

Cast:

Set

Technical

Costume

Direction

Overall
 

Buy tickets for events:

Sponsors