REVIEW
Crazy
Grand Opera House
Belfast
WHEN Caroline Curran first played ‘Maggie Muff’ she created a character, and that character created an audience – and they were out in force for the opening night of Crazy to meet Ruby, played with style by Curran.
This comedy, written by Brenda Murphy and directed by Martin Lynch, is straightforward – girl looking for love, man already in love with her but too shy to admit it, and her ne’er-do-well uncle who likes to spice up life.
Oh yes, and Patsy Cline, who has a non-speaking but important part.
Gary (lovely lanky Ciaran Nolan) is single, house proud and in love with his tenant. She’s coming home from The Gambia maybe with, maybe without, her latest love. Gary is dancing with the Eubank sweeper, ironing Ruby’s dress and panties and he’s excited. Her uncle Eddie (Marty Maguire) is a Jack the lad, owes Gary rent, up to all the tricks of the day but loveable.
The two men banter and the audience are laughing from the start. When Ruby arrives – without her African lover – it all kicks off, with the portrait of Patsy Cline hanging above the fireplace acting as Ruby’s confidante – a clever contrivance as the confused girl discuses her innermost secrets with her favourite singer and so works out her demons.
The theatre emptied in the interval as the audience, majority female, spilled out onto Great Victoria Street for a cigarette then back in for Act Two and to discover if true love would win the day.
I thought Act One was over long but the second act zinged along and was much more entertaining. The audience became very involved and the craic was good but be warned, there’s a lot of strong language.
Three excellent actors with great comic acting ability and powerful singing voices.
:: Until May 27; tickets and information at goh.co.uk
