How I learned to Drive was written by the
critically acclaimed Paula Vogel tackles head-on the controversial
subject of paedophilia, with a touch of near incest thrown in as a
side order.
Set in the States during the late 60’s
it major’s on the ‘relationship’ of L’il’ Bit, Elizabeth
Donnelly with her uncle by marriage Uncle Peck, Tyler Caffall.
Although initially the relationship is build on friendship, it is
patently obvious that there is a sexual interest from the uncle to
his niece, and even through all this he is portrayed as genuinely
loving her, albeit forbidden love.
The story progresses through a variety of
flashbacks intertwined with current events with a supporting cast
of three, Aaron Costa Ganis, Emma Jenkinson and Lotte Wakeham
playing a variety of other, mainly family, roles.
Director James Bounds drew fine
performances from especially Ms Donnelly and Mr Caffall and
tackled a difficult subject matter with a fine balance to get the
message across.
Not the easiest play to watch, given the
subject matter, but one well worth checking out for the
performances given by the entire company.
****
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