In the whimsical world of Peter Quilter's new play, 'Allegra', we find ourselves captivated by the unique tale of a woman who can't help but sing. The play, starring the talented Maureen Lipman, offers a delightful blend of humor and eccentricity, with a touch of social commentary that lingers long after the curtains close.
A Singing Sensation
At the heart of this production is Allegra, a character whose spontaneous serenades become a source of both amusement and contention within her village. Lipman's portrayal is a delight, as she effortlessly delivers the play's jokes with a twinkle in her eye and a shimmy in her shoulders. The audience is treated to a unique brand of comedy that showcases Lipman's skill in bringing quirky characters to life.
Whimsical Whims and Missing Depth
While the play excels in its whimsical tone, it falls short in providing depth to its central character. Allegra's unworldliness is presented as a charming quirk, but we are left wanting more. The backstory, hinted at through the stashing of her father's ashes, feels like a missed opportunity for a richer narrative. The production, directed by Stephen Mear, leans heavily on this whimsical element, leaving other aspects of the story somewhat underdeveloped.
A Brush with an Unjust System
As the plot unfolds, we witness Allegra's brother, Ronen, grappling with concerns for her well-being. In a twist, the justice system becomes involved, threatening to medicate Allegra for her 'colorful mind'. This absurdity is highlighted by the prosecution of an elderly woman for performing 'Annie' at a petrol station. It's a satirical take on an overzealous legal system, but it also raises questions about the boundaries of personal freedom and societal expectations.
Caregiver's Compassion and Cultural Missteps
Enter Anna, the compassionate Czech care worker, played by Elizabeth Bower. Her character adds a layer of complexity to the story, fighting for Allegra's autonomy with a fervor that hints at her Soviet-era upbringing. However, a detail that I find particularly intriguing is her knowledge of obscure American songbook lyrics, which, while impressive, might have been a missed opportunity to incorporate more British-centric references for a local audience.
Echoes of Quilter's Past
Quilter's play draws parallels with his earlier work, 'Glorious!', which also featured Lipman. Both plays explore the theme of unconventional expression and society's judgment. The line "Given all the misery around ... if you spend the day smiling, there must be something wrong with you" is a powerful statement, but one that feels overly emphasized. It's as if Quilter is beating a dead horse, when the underlying message is already clear and poignant.
Final Thoughts
'Allegra' is a play that leaves you with more questions than answers, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. It invites us to reflect on the nature of happiness, freedom, and the judgments we make about those who march to the beat of their own drum. While it may not be a perfect production, it is a thought-provoking one, and that, in my opinion, is a far more valuable achievement.
