*****

I have seen a couple of William Whitehurst’s plays in the past and was well aware that the guy could create an excellent piece, but I had somehow missed this production in the Fringe programme until I was pointed at it by a friend, so at the earliest opportunity I made my way there.

Set in the run down, untidy bachelor flat of freelance welder Ross, a self-described regular guy and former high school baseball star, it starts with his arrival with his sexy girlfriend Trish for he first visit to his hovel.

Everything in their relationship seems rosy, until the dreaded ‘L’ word rears it’s ugly head and Ross proposes. And that’s where the real action starts to take place.

Each has a dark past, and baggage to get through, but what are their secrets and where will it end?

I am not going to even hint at what comes next, you will have to go and find out for yourselves, and go you should. I think this is one of the best pieces of theatre I have seen at the Fringe this year!!

The roles of Ross and Trish are undertaken by Bryan Kaplan and Judy Merrick, and both cope admirably  with the emotional and physical demands of the play with aplomb. The play, with adult themes, occasional violence and strong language is exceptionally directed by David Levy Horton.

If you like great performances and a well written different storyline in your theatre, then this could well be just the vehicle for you.

*****

Knuckleball 

Company: -   End Times Productions / Colter Merrick Productions

Venue: -  Universal Arts @ St Georges West V 8

Dates: -  6 to 30 August 2009

Times: -  18-25   to   19-30

Fringe Programme Page: -  Page 205