Time of My Life

Overview of the play

Time Of My Life is Ayckbourn at his best, dealing with the theme of the decline of a successful family business and the ensuing financial and emotional troubles this brings.

Laura Stratton is celebrating her fifty-fourth birthday and a small family celebration has been organised by her husband Gerry at their favourite restaurant. All seems quiet. However, as the family gathers the trouble begins.

The play shows the present followed by excerpts from past and future giving an overall picture of the family problems.

Press Release, Various

Press Release

It's Laura Stratton's birthday and she's celebrating it with her family at Calvinu's restaurant. She's joined by her gruff husband Gerry whose business is facing cash-flow problems.

There's her eldest son Glyn and his wife Stephanie; they're back together again after Glyn's affair with another woman. The final two guests are Laura's favourite son Adam and his new girlfriend Maureen who's meeting the family for the first time.

The occasion suggests a happy domestic scene, but gradually we are made aware of the family skeletons. The present opens up to have Glyn's story move forward in time and Adam's backward, while at the centre Gerry and Laura pick apart their marriage and recall first love.

Time of My Life is a very funny but truthful look at relationships. But in a typical Ayckbourn way, the humour is tinged with sadness.

Press Release, Various

What the audience said

"Time Of My Life - well done to everyone! I have been a member of the Ullenhall Players for nearly 10 years and so when viewing performances I am not just enjoying the show but also looking at the set, timing and character portrayal. I have to say I was not disappointed on any score and thoroughly enjoyed the whole evening.

I found the simultaneous past, present and future scenes of particular interest and they way that they progressed and regressed - very clever. Although I thought all the acting was very good I particularly enjoyed the performance by Maureen whose voice and facial expressions were superb.

I have only one small criticism and that is Gerry said he wanted another brandy but the previous one was still on the table unfinished as were several other drinks by the end of the night."

Once again well done to you all! JM

"Really enjoyed "Time of your Life" last night. A brilliant production and a great laugh. Please pass on my congratulations to all concerned." MB

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