Outstanding, enthralled, superb–these are all words that describe the spectacular Oct.16-18 Studio VII premiere of “Noises Off.” Originally written by Michael Flayn, “Noises Off” is a comedic “play-within-a-play,” where a theatre troupe desperately tries to salvage their play production called “Nothing On.”
The Noises Off production starts off with a rocky rehearsal of a different play, “Nothing On,” and reveals failures after failure. To begin, director Lloyd Dallas (played by Gabriel Bouleau) grows agitated with the cast, simultaneously wrestling between his romantic relationships with stage manager Poppy Altwood (played Kaitlyn Ngo), and airheaded actress Brooke Ashton (played by Isabella Mungia). Meanwhile, actor Gary Lejeune (played by Cole Davis) and actress Dotty Otley/Mrs.Clackett (played by Varvara Fomicheva)’s once-benevolent relationship sours into a bitter one.
Throughout the play, it is clear that each of the characters’ personal issues are affecting the show with an axe-flinging and glass-breaking backstage. As a result of the troupe’s dysfunctional relationship, the last performance of “Nothing On” starts off in shambles; however, in the end, the characters manage to remember their lines, fix the pacing of the play, and compose themselves, scraping together their final performance of their show.
From the door greeters to the brilliant cast, the abundant efforts were prevalent by all individuals involved in the marvelous production. Impressively, Studio VII “Noises off” production had Broadway-worthy qualities. Right off the bat, the production enchants the audience with the golden, warm lights and awe-inspiring set. The cast continues with that stamina throughout the show with their chaotic, hilarious, and theatrical performances. Even though the play “Nothing On” in the production goes off-the-rails, the same can’t be said for Studio VII’s “Noises Off,” as it was spectacular both when the curtains first opened and when the curtains closed.
One thing that could summarize the phenomenal cast is their collective comedic genius. Despite her character’s questionable acting skills, Munguia’s performance as Brooke Ashton/Vicki is one that can only be depicted as gifted with her skilled comedic acting. In addition, the partner work from Davis and Bouleau was impeccable with both Davis and Bouleau being able to invoke uproarious laughter from the audience. Housekeeper Mrs.Clackett, who constantly looked for her sardines, was the star of the turbulent show! But Freddy Fellow’s (played by Vitor Jones Anicio) falling pants were a close second. Overall, each of the cast members had a magnetic personality in relation to playing the character.
Behind the scenes, the crew shines too with their elaborate sets, lights, costumes, and the poster design. The magnificent set of the production craftfully mimics a retro family home with its floral design wallpaper, several doors, and antique furniture while including the backstage set. Overall, set designer Ana Herrera and the set crew did an impeccable job with the creation of the set. The costumes designed by costume designer Anna Clara Pinho and created with help of the costume crew of each character were lovely and impressive, showcasing Pinho and the crew’s talent. The major thing to applaud the stage crew is being able to seamlessly run the behind the scenes of the high-quality production.
However, the production is nothing without their brilliant directors–Emily Rickford and Austin Oliver. Without their remarkable direction, the production wouldn’t be as full of witty humor, effort, and talent! Furthermore, it is evident that Rickford and Oliver made the right choice in choosing “Noises Off” as Studio VII’s fall production.
The abundant work, passion, exceptional performances, and skills in the production are what made the play as a whole perfect. The stability of the production throughout the several theatre nights made the production one to be remembered. As such, Studio VII “Noises Off” production is one to be revered in the Seven Lakes High School’s history!
