I host a number of plays on NewPlayExchange – below are feedback comments.
You’ll Always Find Me In The Kitchen At Parties
Today’s the day, everyone is rushing around trying to get out the door, but Cassie is finding solace in the kitchen.
“ Cassie and Greg share a few private minutes in the kitchen as she finalizes the details for a big gathering of friends and family. But the reason for that get-together sneaks up on you; a slow reveal leading the audience to a final sweet, hand-to-heart moment. A touching play by Rebecca Cockcroft. ”
“ Sheltering from reality, that’s the theme that Rebecca offers to the audience in this very real and emotional piece. As the audience, we can relate to the idea of not wanting to leave the quiet solace of the kitchen when there’s loads of people around, and in this case, I can imagine the solitude and escape is particularly needed. I don’t want to say too much and ruin it but Rebecca has created a very real moment of emotion that the audience are invited to be a part of with a wonderful twist on the end. ”
Social Commentary
What if commentators got involved in something other than sport? Join Kevin and Jeff as they apply their expert knowledge to a very different sort of game.
“ Social interactions are a complicated thing to explore at the best of times but Rebecca creates a wonderful comedy twist to this interaction by having it analysed sports commentators. This twist takes what would have been a quite ordinary interaction and loads it with intrigue and witty fast paced back and fort dialogue that will draw any audience in. It really is fabulously done! ”
“ A gently funny look at the big game of courtship overseen by a couple of commentators who handle the play-by-play with deft aplomb. We all have been involved in this game and have experienced the wins and losses of love. But not like this. Wouldn’t we all benefit from a couple of color men providing insight and expertise as they discuss the ongoing match? Rebecca Cockcroft makes a strong argument for it. ”
Promises (Radio)
Amber is rudely awoken by hotel staff on her wedding day – she’s especially unhappy as she may have had one too many champagnes last night… oh and who the hell is that in her bed?
“This is such a beautifully adorable play! Not that you think that at first, and that is what is so brilliant about it! The confusion Amber finds herself in on her wedding day and the slow discovery about who the man she woke up with is. I won’t say too much because you definitely need to read it for yourselves. It’s a story that the audience will love to see unfold and would be amazing in audio or live!”
“ PROMISES is a clever one act play, it leads you on in one direction only to throw you off course. Amber wakes up in a hotel room on her wedding day, suffering from the night before. First a kindly maid comes in but makes far too much noise, before an unwelcome guest makes his appearance.
No spoilers here, suffice to say this is a well written, heartfelt play. Written for radio, which would work a treat, but I also believe this has plenty of scope to be a stage play with some great effects. ”
Listen In
It’s hard to talk when you’re being listened to 24/7, but the Resistance will always find a way.
“ Clever and riveting, “Listen In” drops the reader into the middle of an Orwellian dystopia where someone is always listening. Through the ongoing tension, the characters remain relatable, providing excellent fun to any actors in portraying the hidden meanings and cover stories! Excellent suspenseful storytelling carries the audience to the final beat. ”
“ Oooooo! I was leaning forward from the very beginning of reading this piece. Due to the nature of the piece you, as an audience member are made to listen ‘in between’ the lines, the added focus of which increases the tension in an already tension fuelled piece. In a world where anyone and everyone is listening having a plan is dangerous and talking about that plan even more so. That is the idea surrounding this brilliantly written play which would make a wonderful production for an intimate space where the audience can feel part of the secret! ”
“This is a smart look into the world of Big Brother where you need to consider every word you say – walls have ears! The smart way in which the protagonists find to communicate without being overheard is full of ingenuity and with some humour – though the feeling of oppression and torment is not far away. Would be great to see this on stage. A cracking piece from Rebecca Cockcroft. ”
A Backstage Mystery
A touring troupe of performers prepare to go on in a local church Mystery play, only the chap playing God hasn’t turned up yet, and the director isn’t too keen on going on for him…
“ Having experienced the craziness backstage, “A Backstage Mystery” offers audiences a delightful glimpse into a theater production’s chaotic and unpredictable world. The backstage setting is vividly depicted, with flimsy backdrops, props in plastic tubs, and a makeshift costume rail, adding to the authenticity of the theater atmosphere. The characters in the play are well-drawn and endearing, each with their quirks and personalities. A good read. ”
“ I love the sweetness of this stressed out backstage crew. They all get along divinely, but we do see their secrets as well. A fun piece to play for any group! I also find the Biblical staging so relatable for any audience, as anyone can recognize that the role of God would be the most stressful to take on at the last minute. A true actor’s nightmare that just could pay out in glory! ”
“ Aw! I have to say I felt for Kevin in the end but I won’t tell you why. Rebecca has expertly constructed the world of backstage theatre. As the actors gather ready for the curtain to go up we, as the audience get to be the fly on the wall for wonderfully witty back and forth dialogue. Coupling this with the tension rollar coaster that will leave the audience constantly wanting to know if the missing performer is going to turn up and its sure to have them on the edge of their seats. Would make a great performance! ”
The Cabin on Deer Hill
Performed at The Playhouse Theatre, Northampton in 2019, as part of their new works event – Twisted Tales.
When Jodie and Christian arrive at the Cabin in the middle of a downpour, it’s clear that this isn’t just a bad start to a romantic getaway. Locked doors, hidden agendas and a battle for power: who is really here of their own volition? And how far will they go to get what they want?
Review:
“Jodie (Kat Cordell) and Christian (Stewart Magrath) gave excellent performances in what is largely a two-hander.
From the moment they arrive at this secluded cabin, it is clear things are not as they seem but what transpires in a wonderful sequence of twists and turns is not what you may be expecting!
Kat Cordell (Jodie) moves effortlessly between vulnerable, shaken victim and in control aggressor; you’re always wondering if she planned the whole thing or if she is simply twisting a bad situation to her own advantage.
Stewart Magrath (Christian) gives a wonderful performance as he moves from supportive friend and rescuer through manipulated misfit to obsessed stalker and it is simply incredible to watch. The shift in the balance of power is palpable and expertly done.
The final delicious twist of bringing in Sion Grace (Luke) was marvellous and drew audible gasps from a captivated audience.”