Beggars Belief

Student theatre has its ups and downs, and this production is predictably no different. Fortunately, the ups conquer the downs as we follow a night in the life of a group of friends with various issues, who are all forced to question their beliefs (or lack thereof) in God over, inexplicably, a game of Monopoly.

The play demonstrates the talents of gifted writer Will Lawton, who also turns his hand to acting here to good standing. It’s a witty, snappy script with likable characters who gel well together, but the general plot is a little more shaky. There seems to be a lot left unexplained, and little link between the question of beliefs and what actually happens on stage – the exploration of Christianity is at one stage crudely argued between Helen and Tom, but adds no real conclusion to the play as a whole.

The production is also marred by one weak cast member in particular – fortunately, in the smallest role – who looks uncomfortable at best. Other than this, it’s a strong cast, and in particular Inga Rudzitis as Helen stands out, with a passionate and confident performance.

On the whole, this is an passionate, vibrant performance which displays great chemistry between the affable characters and does justice to an interesting script.