Review of A Higher Education

"Explosive take on higher education" by Jill Lawrie for remotegoat on 23/09/09

The 40th anniversary of Bench Theatre continues with their production of a new play representing the current decade. A Higher Education, under the banner 'State of the Nation' is the winner of their third playwriting competition. Angela Pressland is an exciting new playwright, who has already seen success with the broadcasting of a prize-winning story and performances of two of her short plays at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley. She began writing in 2005 and intends to study for a degree in Theatre Studies. Working alongside the Director, Jacquie Penrose, this world premiere has introduced us to an exciting duo.

The play is a marathon ~ almost two uninterrupted hours of explosive intense emotions ranging from guilt and frustration to racism and humiliation. Patrick, a teacher and valued member of staff, is experiencing problems and deep fears in his private life and as an antidote decides to seek female comfort! Summer, a university student, in order to fund her higher education, is supplementing her meagre resources by working at the brothel! Explosive exchanges ensue and the consequential outpouring of impassioned feelings are let loose.

This small cast of 4 really brought the piece to life. Melanie Cole (Eleanor) excelled as the 'Madame', as she reassured the inhibited teacher on his introduction to the 'boudoir'. Roger Wallsgrove (Patrick Jarvis), a newcomer to Bench Theatre, was outstanding. His sheer volume of dialogue and range of emotions was exceptional as he laid bare his frisson of desire! Equally impressive was the stunning Charmaine Barker (Summer). The comfortable ease with which she taunted and consoled the older man was remarkable.

This was a compelling piece of drama encompassing the worrying trend of students joining the sex industry to fund their degrees! Bench Theatre consistently produce challenging contemporary works and this was no exception. The performance was well supported, and is highly recommended.

Event Venues & Times
finished	The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre | 56 East Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 1BS

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