The Old People Are Revolting
Aubyn Live Theatre
St Aubyn St, Hastings
From today until July 23
Reviewed by Keith Russell
Walking past the above's theatre and hearing the sounds of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, one might be forgiven for thinking a children's class was in attendance but no, what you are hearing is the national anthem of the newly independent kingdom of the "Sunshine Retirement Home".
This comedy, by New Zealand playwright Devon Williamson, is Aubyn Live Theatre's latest production and with director Stephanie Drew throwing in a mix of lovable, eccentric characters, singing their revolutionary song will be the only time laughter will not be heard in this very funny show.
Glenn Cameron, as Howie the former salesman, is given the dubious honour of presenting the "we knew this would be in the show" flatulence jokes but his interaction with Patricia, the former High Court judge, played with suitable disapproval by Brenda Conlon, makes the well-worn lines seem fresh.
There is really good chemistry between these two but providing excellent support was Lisa Nickel as Shirley, the resident wild child of the 1960s looking for one last show of militancy to go with her memories of being a former trade union firebrand.