Ayckbourn in Cardiff: Dark Comedy Returns

Ayckbourn’s ‘Just Between Ourselves’ Delivers a compelling, Bittersweet Reflection on Middle-Class Life

Currently captivating audiences at New theatre Cardiff through July 5th, 2025, Alan Ayckbourn‘s “Just Between Ourselves” is a darkly comic and profoundly moving exploration of marital strain and societal expectations. This new touring production, skillfully directed by Michael cabot, doesn’t shy away from the discomfort simmering beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic domesticity, making for a truly compelling theatrical experience.

The play, set in 1976, masterfully transports viewers to a bygone era. Elizabeth Wright’s set and costume design are superbly nostalgic, featuring details like an old green Austin Mini and a patio brimming with 1970s décor. This meticulous attention to detail creates a world that feels both intimately familiar and strikingly distant, prompting reflection on how much – and how little – has changed.

Did you know?-Austin Minis,like the one featured in the play,were revolutionary for their space-saving front-wheel drive and transverse engine. They became a symbol of 1960s British culture and remain popular with collectors today.

At the heart of the narrative lies the unraveling relationship between Dennis (tom Richardson) and Vera (Holly Smith). Dennis, seemingly content, spends his time tinkering in the garage, while Vera quietly struggles with a deteriorating mental state. As one observer noted, Dennis appears “blissfully unaware – or perhaps wilfully ignorant – of Vera’s descent into what would have been termed, at the time, a ‘nervous breakdown.'”

Holly Smith’s portrayal of Vera is particularly heartbreakingly nuanced. She embodies a woman burdened by quiet endurance, conveying a depth of emotion with remarkable subtlety. In contrast, tom Richardson’s dennis is frustratingly upbeat, his cheerfulness masking a profound emotional void. The dynamic between the two actors creates some of the play’s most uncomfortable – and tragically funny – moments.

Reader question:-Do you think dennis is truly unaware of Vera’s struggles, or is he choosing to ignore them? Share your thoughts on the characters’ motivations.

The supporting cast further enriches the production. Joseph Clowser delivers a subtle intensity as Neil, while Connie Walker’s Marjorie is a perfectly brittle presence, embodying controlling and cold maternal instincts. Helen Phillips as Pam injects much-needed energy, providing a counterpoint to Vera’s increasing fragility.

Cabot’s direction is a masterclass in restraint. He allows the tension to build gradually, avoiding melodrama while simultaneously allowing the script’s undercurrents of suppressed hostility to simmer. The result is a play that evokes a spectrum of emotions, leaving audiences laughing one moment and quietly devastated the next.

Ayckbourn’s enduring talent lies in his ability to write women with a deep understanding of the emotional labor they carry, and Vera is a prime example. The play’s prescience is striking, tackling themes of mental ill health, strained gender roles, and the hidden tragedies that unfold behind closed doors. It functions as both a period piece and a poignant reflection of contemporary life.

“Just Between Ourselves” is not always easy viewing, but it is undeniably richly rewarding. It’s a sharply observed, bittersweet slice of life that serves as a powerful reminder of how little – and yet how much – has changed.

Tickets, priced between £24.00-£37.00, can be booked here: https://trafalgartickets.com/new-theatre-cardiff/en-GB/event/play/just-between-ourselves-tickets.

The Enduring Influence of Alan Ayckbourn’s Plays

Following the insightful exploration of Alan Ayckbourn’s “Just Between Ourselves” at New Theater Cardiff, it’s essential to delve into the broader tapestry of his dramatic contributions. Ayckbourn’s plays, a staple of the British theatrical landscape, offer piercing insights into the human condition. They frequently examine the intricacies of relationships, particularly those found within the middle class, and also the subtle yet powerful forces shaping human behavior.”Just Between Ourselves” is a prime example of his skill, capturing these nuances wiht a blend of comedy and pathos.

Alan Ayckbourn’s work often features a distinctive comedic style that derives from a masterly understanding of timing and character.He uses humor not merely to entertain, but to expose the weaknesses, anxieties, and delusions that lie beneath the surface of everyday life. While “Just Between Ourselves” is frequently enough described as darkly comic, this designation applies to many of his works. This blend makes his work both accessible and intellectually stimulating.

One of Ayckbourn’s hallmarks is his exploration of theatrical form. He frequently experiments with stagecraft, employing techniques like split stages and simultaneous scenes to create complex and compelling dramatic experiences. These innovative methods frequently enough provide a wider perspective on the characters’ lives and situations. He often uses staging to mirror the emotional states of characters.

Ayckbourn’s plays, including the touring production of “Just Between Ourselves”, are not just about individual personalities. They reflect on the societal pressures and expectations that frame those characters’ lives.Through his work, Ayckbourn poses questions about marriage, social mobility, and the changing roles of men and women. His plays have stood the test of time due to their relevance.

what makes Alan ayckbourn’s plays so enduring? His ability to blend comedy and drama creates a uniquely powerful effect on the audience. They prompt laughter interspersed with moments of deep reflection, prompting viewers to consider the realities of the human experiences. The impact of his plays endures because they are filled with empathy.

Ayckbourn’s keen eye for detail and his ability to capture the everyday anxieties and aspirations of ordinary people have solidified his place as one of Britain’s most important and popular contemporary playwrights. He does not shy away from the difficult topics. His plays are often considered a true reflection of life.

This current revival of “Just Between Ourselves” is a testament to the quality of his work. The play continues to resonate with audiences today. Ayckbourn’s legacy rests on the understanding of his ability to observe the human condition with both clarity and compassion.

Ayckbourn’s works are characterized by complex plots, witty dialog and nuanced character growth, creating a profound impact on audiences. This quality has made his plays both critical and commercially prosperous and beloved around the world