Beginning

Step into the cozy and intimate world of Beginning by David Eldridge, a heartwarming play that takes place in the aftermath of a housewarming party. Presented at Pip Theatre, Milton, this two-hander one-act play provides a realistic and surprisingly touching inside view of the awkward first steps of new love. With Crystal Arons as the confident and captivating Laura and Jesse Blachut as the awkward yet endearing Danny, the show explores the vulnerability and hopes of seeking a real connection amidst life's baggage and the world of online dating.

In the aftermath of Laura's housewarming party, Danny is the last man standing. We find ourselves in a lavish living room in London during the early hours of the morning. Laura, a determined dame, fancies Danny, a self-conscious sweetheart. Over the course of the evening, they engage in heartfelt conversations, playful arguments, and fumbling flirtations. Each gradually peeling away each other’s walls to expose their desires, insecurities, and imperfections whilst coming to grips with their own truths. Being honest with themselves and each other leads to sparks, and the potential of their blossoming relationship makes the climax of the play far sweeter than expected. An apt choice for Moonspark Productions first show, Beginning skilfully captures the delicate balance of seeking a connection while navigating emotional walls, fears, and vulnerabilities.

Under the skilful direction of Heidi Gledhill, Beginning invites us to witness the delicate dance between Laura and Danny, as they navigate the complexities of finding love later in life. Gledhill's sensitive and subtle approach allows the acting to take centre stage. Using each moment as an opportunity for connection, the two mismatched strangers are carefully edged together to become a perfect fit, making for a very satisfying union by the end. The play unfolds with a natural rhythm, giving room for the characters' quieter moments and nuances to shine but without letting the energy lull for too long. Gledhill's direction ensures that the audience is fully engaged throughout the humble and hilarious 100-minute journey.

Together, Arons and Blachut form a perfectly matched, mis-matched pair. Throughout the play, they showcase a genuine chemistry as they peel away the layers of their characters with honesty and humour.

Crystal Arons delivers a standout performance as Laura, embodying the character's outward confidence and outspokenness while revealing the underlying emptiness and yearning for something more. Arons exudes both grace and guts as a voluptuous femme fatale, fully embracing the balance between bravado and vulnerability that comes with playing an unconventional leading lady. However, it’s when that mask finally drops that Aron shines, giving the audience glimpses of the character’s complexities and deep yearning for true connection.  Her portrayal feels genuine and heartfelt, leaving the audience both laughing and touched by the emotional journey she takes us on.

Playing the uncertain love interest was Jesse Blachut as Danny. Danny is a divorced man with low self-esteem and a complicated relationship with his daughter, which can be quite a challenging character to play. Blachut treats the sensitive character with an honesty that is both vexing and endearing. Throughout the play, Blachut skilfully embodies Danny's uneasiness in social situations, creating a familiar character who avoids Laura's attempts at seduction with humor and evasive tactics. Despite their apparent reluctance to share their true feelings, the audience can sense that there's more to Danny than meets the eye, hinting at some previous hurt that hinders the character from accepting and advances that may lead to connection. Blachut's performance as Danny has audiences rooting for him to break through his own self-imposed barriers.

With its perfect blend of humour and vulnerability, Beginning leaves a lasting impression, reminding us that the journey to finding love is filled with ups and downs, laughter, and poignant moments of self-discovery. The cast and crew have delivered a touching and humorous journey of two individuals seeking connection later in life. Gledhill’s direction provides an authentic and relatable experience, while the cast’s portrayal of genuine vulnerability is a testament to their efforts. As Moonspark Production’s first show, Beginning is a very poignant first step and has certainly set the stage for what may come next.

Rebecca Lynne

Photographer: Kris Anderson