Tonight was really exciting for me. Parallel, written by Laura Lindsay, produced by Black Toffee and Harrogate Theatre began its tour at the wonderful Hope Mill Theatre. It moves on to Stockton, Derby, Lincoln and Halifax.
As audience, we're immediately immersed in a deserted night-time platform at an almost deserted train station, where Anna finds herself stranded after missing her train with only Beth for company. The two women struggle to connect, complicated further with the later arrival of third character, C, who adds thematic texture, pathos and lots of uncomfortable laughs. The situation is uncomfortable and a little dangerous, the characters are guarded and cautious and the script is written with a truly confident economy.
I won't tell you too much about the play - I hate reveals. I'll leave it to say that the story unfolds and the intrigue thickens. Masterfully performed by a cast of three who swap roles nightly, determined by the roll of a dice by an audience member at the start of the show, this is a show not to be missed.
But the most exciting aspect of the show for me was that Parallel started life at Studio Salford Development Week. Laura took the Development Week Challenge back in Development Week 4 (2014) and wrote the first draft (at the time pen-named Waiting For Light) especially to set herself the task of writing a new piece.
I remember getting a message the week of the first reading to say that she hadn't started writing it yet (this was the Monday, I think, and the reading was on the Friday!) and that she was slightly panicking but was going to lock herself away in a room for several days until she had something to present. Having completed a Development Week Challenge myself, recently, I have first-hand experience of the panic and the fear of not delivering, but it's got to be said that it was one of the best first drafts I've ever come across. I'm not surprised one bit that the final production is so full of thematic depth, comedy and beautiful writing.
It was brilliant to recognise the opening and recall the characters and to, at last, see them come to life and go on a real journey. I really feel like I've seen the inception of a great piece of work.
So, whatever you do this week in Manchester, I would heartily recommend this great show. Running til Saturday 5th Nov, with matinees and evening performances on Thurs 3rd and Sat 5th).
For more info, check out their website www.blacktoffee.co.uk
