Once again JackieMaxwell has unearthed a gem by Githa Sowerby. A man (Graeme Somerville) sacrifices his career to do what is expected of him - provide a home and an income for his wife and sisters.
They expect him to do it, so do not waste time being grateful, or even thankful. The portrait of a marriage based on nothing is particulalry hard to watch. Jenny L. Wright is particulalry awful in her constant demand for more money. we liberated women have to supress an urge to smack her and suggest she get a job. The two sisters , played by Kate Hennig and Sharry , demonstrate what happens when boredom is the only option. With no income, no husband and no hope they become selfish, entitled and demanding.
Marla Mclean, who has a job and an income is the author's heroine. She can be unselfish and caring, looking after her nephew and after Jack. with her support, Jack finally stands up for himself and leaves. he women are not destitute - he is not such a cad as to leave them with nothing, but they will finally have to recognise that there is a limit to the money available. If they want more they will have to earn it, but you know that of course, they will not.
A great cast did an excellent job of presenting a social critique, without the need to harangue the audience. Shaw himself could have learned a few things from Sowerby.
The sisters will not earn money because they cannot - their world and (lack of) training dooms them.
ReplyDeleteIt is impressive that Sowerby did not write a shrill feminist tirade; EVERYBODY is trapped here, even the bitch of a wife, and Sowerby has the subtlety and skill to show this.
Great cast - Somerville was particularly impressive again.