The intimacy of the Forge Theatre is the ideal setting for this thought provoking piece by Deborah McAndrew. Billed as a bitter sweet tale of Mothers, Sisters love and lies, Flamingland is a real rollercoaster of emotions which the 5 strong cast carried off to great effect causing tears to be shed and laughter to bellow within the delivery of just one sentence. This is testimony to McAndrew’s impressive script which deals with real life issues as well as providing the opportunity to test the metal of each actor as the full story is rolled out for all to see.

As Mari deals with her terminal diagnosis she concentrates on getting everything in order as she controls her demise, but chaos descends as the one thing she wishes to take to the grave with her is brought out into the open. Julie Hall excels as Mari and gives a powerful performance displaying raw emotion and a clear understanding of her role. Carly Lomax is clearly comfortable as daughter Kathleen as she learns to come to terms with both her mother’s condition and the revelation that her cousin is indeed her sister. A controlled performance which was sustained throughout.

Adding intrigue as the seemingly devoted sister Bridie, Diane Pepper is commanding as she struts about with an almost blaze approach to her sisters condition culminating in some fine acting as her emotions spill out when the secrets of the past surface. In support, Louise Davenport as Bridie’s daughter shows a stage presence that many would be envious of. Controlled delivery and calming tones that contrasts well against the angst and passion of this story.

Adding a light-hearted touch Joe Cunliffe as pest controller Dave showed great comedic talent with the delivery one many one liners hitting the right spot every time. As the only male in the cast Joe made the most of this part giving it the right amount of humour along with genuine tears when the script called for it – brilliant.

Paul Ward has directed a great piece of theatre. Scene changed were impressive and executed at speed. The addition of audio visual scene setting at the beginning of the play worked really well and with original music by Louise Davenport, this production has closed Phoenix Theatre Companies current season on a high.

Paul Cohen BATS