IN How the Other Half Loves, Alan Ayckbourn demonstrates his mastery of traditional comedy. Split-second timing and miscommunication drive the plot in this deftly written, fast-comedy of manners.
The production is a collaboration between the Welsh College of Music and Drama and the Torch Theatre. The artistic director of the Torch, Peter Doran, will direct the production and Torch designer Sean Crowley will be the design supervisor.
Peter explained why this is an important collaboration for the Torch.
"I've worked at the Welsh College of Music and Drama quite a lot over the years; it gives me a chance to check out the talent that will be leaving in July, not just acting talent, but also designers, stage-managers, scenic artists etc. The college has a good reputation and the students always seem to do well. I've no doubt that some of the cast from this play will be on our screens within a short space of time.
"This production will be no different from a full blown professional production, apart from the fact that the actors will not be paid. In fact, this will be the last thing they do before getting their Equity cards and entering the profession for real.
"Ayckbourn is still the master, it's a wonderful play and these young stars of tomorrow do it full justice."
The action revolves around two couples, and an affair between one half of each couple. To complicate the matter further, both husbands happen to be boss and employee.
Alan Ayckbourn is England's most prolific playwright and is reputed to be the most frequently performed writer after Shakespeare. With this play he fulfils his wish 'to persuade people that theatre can be fun.' Great fun.
How the Other Half Loves will be showing at the Torch Theatre today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday) at 7.30 pm. Tickets priced at £7 (£5.50 discounts) are available from the box office (tel: 01646 695267).