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Editorial
Stones in his Pockets, Palace Theatre
The harsh reality of life does battle with desire in the superbly written two-man, 15 character play, Stones in his Pockets, by Marie Jones.
Last night the audience at Watford’s Palace Theatre enjoyed a rollercoaster ride of fame, fortune, hopes and dreams, in this very poignant, at times sad but very funny play of contrasts.
The energetic and resourceful David Caves and Jack Reynolds skilfully play every single character in the play, changing stance, voice and expression to clearly define their role. It was a great exhibition by two very talented actors.
The effortless turn of a head or a quick spin allowed one character to roll into another, and this slick, well-timed partnership of Reynolds and Caves is one that should be seen to be properly appreciated.
The diverse characters introduced in the play by Jones, include: Clem Curtis, a British director (look out for the thumbs up) that all are keen to impress, Scottish security guard (who struggles to count), and an old Irishman famous for being an extra in The Quiet Man…
What made this play intriguing was the lack of real boundaries for the characters, I suppose this would have made life far too easy for both Reynolds and Caves. Each role experienced a transformation of character during the play.
The character of American actress, and notorious diva, Caroline Giovanni, shifted from fame-hungry star to lonely star, and this was carefully delivered. Central figure Charlie Conlon, also swung from hopelessly hopeful to hopelessly hopeless, and his role gave us all something to think about, the cul-de-sac life that many do not choose, yet are destined to lead.
But amid the gloom, there is always a degree of hope, and all in all this is a feel-good play. The moments of despair and rejuvenated and diluted with comedy, and being funny is clearly what Reynolds and Cave revel in the most.
Stones in his Pockets has won awards both in England and Ireland, and has toured across the world. It is sadly only on in Watford for a very short time.