Two reviews by Gideon Allen who attended the double-bill night of theatre and new writing commissions for Lancashire Fringe Festival.

The performances took place at The Ferret, Preston, on Monday, October 07, 2024 in front of an audience of 110 people – a record crowd for both theatre at The Ferret and theatre at #lancsfringe

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Lydia Baines: He Said, She Said
Review by Gideon Allen

Lydia Baines’ He Said, She Said is a 30-minute portrayal of a hazy night and the shifting dynamics between two characters. Performed at The Ferret, the compact venue heightened the tension, pulling the audience into the emotional aftermath.

The contrast between Eve’s vulnerability and James’ calm control was gripping, with each subtle change in their interactions adding layers of suspense. As Eve’s fractured memories emerged, the line between truth and motive grew increasingly unclear.

While the short runtime felt as though it belonged to a larger piece, leaving some questions unanswered, this ambiguity added to the intrigue and prompted reflection on what truly transpired. A promising debut that hints at more to come from Baines.

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Jo & Dave Have Moved
Review by Gideon Allen

Jo & Dave Have Moved is an engaging, one-act play that beautifully explores themes of change, love, and mystery. Performed at The Ferret, this 60-minute production blends humor, emotion, and supernatural intrigue, making it a perfect fit for the Halloween season.

Sarah Green shines as Jo, delivering a heartfelt performance that captures both the emotional weight of change and her curiosity about the secrets of their new home. Martin Travers as Dave brings excellent comic timing, balancing the play’s deeper moments with humor. Diarmaid McDonagh Green stands out, playing two distinct roles with versatility and energy, adding depth to the unfolding mystery.

While the intimate setting of The Ferret works well, this play deserves a larger stage to fully realize its potential. A bigger venue with more technical resources could enhance the spooky atmosphere and give the actors more space to breathe. Overall, Jo & Dave Have Moved is a delightfully crafted piece, with strong performances and an intriguing story that would truly shine on a grander scale
Gideon Allen