Bang-Bang!

I have seen and reviewed a play written by Sally Lawton before (Centre stage, co-written by Paul Swaine) and I was very much looking forward to seeing some more of her work in the 24:7 festival at The grand Midland hotel. I had read a rather less than flattering review about Bang-Bang! and I thought I could only go along and see for myself. With the question hanging in my mind, had Lawton lost her talent?

Bang-bang! stated on it's poster that it contained strong language and that it did, although only a smattering of standard swear words and they were not used in overtly violent tones so I did not find it offensive at all. It centres around a pub robbery. Each actor played three deeply contrasting roles, with two of the male actors playing women to tremendous comedic effect. The audience all knew each of the four actors were playing three roles and the pacey style added to the excitement and although they didn't mess up once I think they could of made a joke out of it and got another laugh if they had!

Once again Lawton had written a play that confirms her style of having laugh out loud moments, smiling moments and a slight glimmer of poignancy, that leaves an audience wondering what else she has to offer. It also reaffirms that no, Sally Lawton has not lost her talent - anyone able to write, direct and act in a play (a comedy no less) as well as making the theatre accessible to Joe Public and making the crowd laugh is a very accomplished talent (I use the word talent as it is impossible to categorise Lawton). This play demonstrates that the theatre is for everyone and it should not be seen as exclusive or stuffy.