SPEAKEASY The Forgotten Flapper

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Thursday, May 12th, 2016
7:28 PM to 9:30 PM

Speakeasy, The Forgotten Flapper, the upcoming production from TheatreWorks - performing at the Lower Elks Hall in Courtenay on May 12, 13, 14 - is a lighthearted look at prohibition in the '20s.

Kymme Patrick, Artistic Director/Owner of TheatreWorks, offers a pot pourri of genres in the witty, original script. Within the storyline there are elements of a "who dunnit", a tragedy, a musical and a morality tale to mention a few. Added to that is a delightfully "camp" and clever use of satirical yet humorous jargon reminiscent of the roaring twenties. And akin to the classical Greek chorus of old "who comment with a collective voice on the dramatic action" there are four Wise Guys who stand out as storytellers and keep the narrative moving forward. It is the back and forth of their repartee that provides a background of information that highlight key elements in the plot.

Cleverly done and with a definite "Brooklynese" flavour evident in their dialogue, the Wise Guys, who also double as speakeasy patrons, are hilarious. They are sure to keep audience chuckles coming. Speakeasy is predominantly a comedic "spoof" yet Patrick - with her typically copious research - has managed to bring into focus some underlying social changes of the 20's, giving food for thought re societal parameters.

Many of the characters are based on real people and although the story is fiction, much of what is in the play did occur. Audiences will be regaled by the talented cast. Characters are very real. The Wise Guys are hilarious. The music from the 20's will entertain and includes an original song, Take Myself Out Dancing, written and performed by valley songstress Joanna Finch who portrays the speakeasy owner of The Cat's Pajamas Club, where the action takes place. And who doesn't enjoy a good murder mystery that keeps you wondering until the last scene?