If you think John Godbar’s work always reflects the north of England you are in for a shock with his latest play “Departures”. This play is a refreshing departure from his norm and should make its way easily to the London stage thereby giving the south a feast of superb writing, performed by a fine cast of actors under John Godber’s direction. The airport “Din Dong” announcement will never be the same again, especially if you do not like flying.

The fuss is about a play set in departure lounges as Jim, superbly played by Ian Rogerson, evolves in his given career making documentaries at the expense of his wife. Ian Rogerson gives a sensitive yet amusing performance as he and his partner Steve, played with accomplishment by Robert Angell, work their way through endless superb one liners to make this play something different from the north’s master of observation. Two other fine performances are given by the women that they come in contact with, Sherry Baines plays Jim’s long suffering wife and Liz Carney plays Zoe their ambitious personal assistant, who will go to any lengths to get what she wants. This is all set against a nice piece of set design by Pip Leckenby. John Boddy lets his costume design down with an ill fitting, off the peg suit worn by the principle character Jim, whilst his woman’s clothes are admirable.

The audience chuckled their way through the evening’s entertainment and gave the cast a thunderous ovation at this play’s all to soon conclusion. This play is something different. Don’t miss it. © BA

“Departures” is in Hull from the 28th of October, 2001 to the 3rd of November, 2001. Returning from 17th January until the 2nd February 2002.