Interludes

THE NOTEBOOK (6/28/14): Alan Ayckbourn Ensemble

• By drediman
• July 1, 2014
• No Comments

Alan Ayckbourn Ensemble

I spent all day this past Saturday with a series of inspired Alan Ayckbourn comedies under the umbrella the “Alan Ayckbourn Ensemble” at 59E59. The productions, which  originated from the UK’s Stephen Joseph Theatre, included two full length comedies (“Time of My Life” and “Arrivals & Departures”) and two one-act comedies (together, “Farcicals”). Although the headliner of the theater marathon was the sharp world premier production of Ayckbourn’s “Arrivals & Departures”, his relatively unknown “Time of My Life” emerged as the heart of the enterprise. Rarely have I seen a more brutally frank, bleak Ayckbourn play. Not to say it was not funny; on the contrary, it was quite hilarious. “Farcicals” was the polar opposite — a totally frivolous, albeit irresistible, affair. The British ensemble was glorious throughout. This was a great way to celebrate the prolific master’s 75th birthday (which also marks the 50th anniversary of the debut of his first West End play).