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Reviewed by T.G. for The Croydon Advertiser

Admirably Baffling

Most drama societies choose the type of play that amateurs and their followers revel in, an inconsequential plot that entertains without being too exacting, stock characters like old friends and the "unexpected" climax or final curtain.

It was always a pleasant change to see something out of the ordinary, but to my mind the new Theatre Workshop Coulsdon play "The Ironworkers" written by two members of the group, Stephen Airey and Nicholas Kinloch, and presented last week at Coulsdon Youth Centre was just a little too "off-beat".

I admired this group of young people for the excellent way in which they presented the play. They are adventurous and enterprising. They have a great deal of acting ability which might be better served were they to choose a more conventional play.

What is happening inside the Ironworks? Is life there drama, tragedy or comedy? What is the secret of Andrew Elliot's strange fascination for other people? And theirs for him? What is the secret from Michael's past that is slowly driving him insane? What part does the Ironworks play in Victor's plan for Universal domination? And which of the characters is you? These are the questions printed in the programme, and I must confess I was no wiser having seen the play.

I like plays to have a beginning a middle and an end, and most important of al, whether they be drama, tragedy or comedy, I like them to be entertaining.

Although "The Ironworkers" was directed by Roger Keightley and Stephen Airey in a most professional manner, I was neither amused nor entertained. Judging by the strained faces of some of the audience, neither were they.

The whole piece was beautifully managed, however, with first-class expressive movement and a team spirit which only comes from enthusiasm and sheer hard work. The backstage staff provided some cleverly contrived lighting and sound effects.

As the cast was a large one, I will refrain from mentioning any individual player. They all did an admirable job.

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