'Time and the Conways'
Directed by Ian Welch
in performance 26th May - 2nd June 2018
Synopsis: Time and the Conways was written by J.B. Priestley in 1937, and explores ideas about time through the experience of a well-to-do Yorkshsire family, the Conways. Set between the wars in the period 1919-1937, the play works on many levels, and is part universal tragedy, part family romance, and part political history, as well as a meditation on time. With its accessible naturalistic style, tinged with dramatic irony and rich human insight, the play remains hugely popular with audiences of all ages.
Priestley shows how complacency and class arrogance led to Britain’s decline and economic collapse in the post-First World War period, instead of tapping human potential to create a better society. Priestley clearly foresaw how human blindness and greed was paving the way to another major war.
The play explores the family destiny of Mrs Conway and her six children, showing how time brings the experience of loss, failure and the death of youthful dreams, but also the potential for developing compassion and a transcendent understanding of reality, bordering on religious mysticism. Priestley’s characters are richly drawn, and provide wonderful scope for dramatic realisation. The play is a delight for audiences and actors alike.
Cast:
MRS CONWAY - Eileen Warner
MADGE CONWAY - Vanthoulla Corbould
HAZEL CONWAY - Megan Carton
CAROL CONWAY - Alex Meason
KAY CONWAY - Leanne Carton
ROBIN CONWAY - Harry Wells
ALAN CONWAY - Robert Chambers
JOAN HELFORD - Aisling Dunne
ERNEST BEEVERS - David George
GERALD THORNTON - Clive Madel
Ian Welch, Director, July 2017
The Edward Alderton Theatre is a non-professional performance venue in Bexleyheath, Kent, founded in 1976. It has a raked auditorium seating 74, a proscenium stage, a fully licensed bar, a deaf loop, toilets and free onsite parking. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on the premises. Performances commence at 8pm. Social evenings are held every Wednesday from 9pm, except during show weeks. Non-members welcome.