“Engaging performance in an interesting performance about failure and ambition”
Laurie Stevens stars in this character comedy drama as the titular Gerald Lloyd-Davies, who takes us through their life in the performing arts. They highlight the ups and downs of their fame, leading to a conclusion that exemplifies the overarching feeling that Lloyd-Davies probably thinks he deserves more than he has been given.
The play concerns itself with ideas of privilege, ambition and satirises the elder voices in the media. It is a well written script that has plenty of laughs to keep you engaged. The stories of the old theatre days harks back to interviews with Richard Harris or Peter O’Toole, invoking the images of what used to be, and what could have been. As we progress and see how Lloyd-Davies’ career has floundered, we see a bitterness that progresses into annoyance for the final sentiments of the piece. It is cleverly pieced together throughout.
Stevens puts in an impressive performance. She holds attention well and manages to keep progressing the story. Her embodiment of a man in his mid-seventies is confident and clear. It feels a little like she is bringing us a more mild mannered Alan Partridge, which is enjoyable to watch in bringing these stories to life.
While it is nicely written and performed well, the piece desperately missed some more dynamic moments. It stays within a relatively modest temperament throughout, never quite taking the chance to embrace real sadness or anger. This may be due to the guise that Gerald Lloyd-Davies is performing to an audience and putting on a facade, but a chink in that armour would’ve been a welcome addition.
These dynamics are really what holds the piece back. It doesn’t hit every note it sets out to, because it is fairly calmly paced and played. It maybe needs a little bit of chaos, or a building of tension to really excel to the heights that this performer deserves.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/an-evening-with-gerald-lloyd-davies
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: Former Gent’s Locker Room at Summerhall
Dates: 6th – 31st August (Not 17th, 24th)
Time: 17.40
Ticket prices: £13.00 / concessions £11.50
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 14+ (Guideline)