THIS WEEK: Comic Potential

Comic Potential by Alan Ayckbourn.
Director: Robert Gairey

Comic Potential Cast List

“Comic Potential” is a comedy play by Alan Ayckbourn, written and first performed in 1998, but set in the foreseeable future in a world in which television actors have been replaced by androids (called “actoids”). It is a satire on the television industry, with interesting things to say about getting TV projects off the ground and getting them approved, as well as the pursuit of ratings at all costs! It also creates nostalgia for the golden age of comedy, with musings about the comic stylings of Buster Keaton and Oliver Hardy. It has its own share of slapstick, outrageous (and slightly naughty) farce, and compromising situations. It has excitement, as characters face real danger. And at heart it is a very tender, heart rending love story, as naïve young writer Adam Trainsmith falls hopelessly in love with young nurse actoid JCF31-333, renamed Jacie Tripplethree. As she sees the potential to make her a star of her own series, she develops self-awareness, and, eventually, a bourgeoning love of her own.

Performance Dates: Tuesday 21 – Saturday 25 May 2019
6 performances over 5 days at the Seligman Theatre, Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff.
Performances every evening at 7.30 with a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday 25 May.