The Dance of Time by Tim Coakley, fringe play at the Lantern Theatre
Perhaps it's because I know how much time in rehearsals has gone into the making of this two-hander, perhaps because I know how good the director and actors are, and perhaps because I'm personally invested in the show's success, that I was so moved by their performance on the first night. The other reason might be because it is actually very good.
Whatever the reason, I found Julian Howard McDowell's performance of a curmudgeonly (my words) old Tom so moving. I shed a tear. A few in fact.
I was mesmerised by Sam Nixon's use of the stage, her beautiful singing voice and her sparring with Julian. I agree with Philippa Hammond, Chair of Sussex Playwrights, in her review when she described Sam as graceful. She was indeed, and the more so when contrasted with Tom.
The specific direction of Petina Hapgood is difficult to pinpoint, and yet is there throughout. I know this because I had the privilege of joining them at an early rehearsal.
My own involvement in the show is as a social media marketer and promoter. It's the third year in a row that I've worked with the playwright Tim Coakley, who has always given me praise and encouragement for my efforts to get his plays in front of people.
It's not an easy task during May in Brighton when there are hundreds and hundreds of events; cultural, artistic, historical, musical and so the list goes on. For me, the win is when we sell out. Friday was packed and Saturday was officially sold out. Brilliant!
Thanks go to The Brightonian magazine for giving us a few lines of editorial, and to Latest TV for interviewing the cast and director.
There has been some great feedback, as well as reviews, and we're hoping for a few more. All are being shared on the socials.facebook.com/thedanceoftime & instagram.com/timcoakleyplaywright/
What else is there to say? Oh yes, please go and see The Dance of Time for yourself and let me know if you agree. Here's the ticket link The Dance of Time.
Fringe theatre lives or dies by word of mouth, so every person who comes along genuinely matters.
The show is on tonight and Monday in Brighton, and for two nights in Eastbourne on Saturday 23rd -Sunday 24th May 3pm, at the Venton Centre, tickets available at the venue.Thanks very much.
Sarah Agnew
Social Media Marketing & Photography
