It’s that time of year again, when our wonderful students of the Drama Society (DramSoc) put on their annual showstopper of a play. Friends, family, and the St Andrew’s college community flocked to a transformed Parisian dining hall in anticipation for what was sure to be a dynamic performance rife with scandal, satire and sultry humour.
For those who missed it, this year’s chosen production was Boeing Boeing, a comedy by French playwright Marc Camoletti. Produced by Dan McSweeney and directed by incoming Senior Student Chloe Gillis, the play showcased the hard work and dedication that went into its preparation. Assistant Director Scarlett Pearce also played a crucial role, along with Stage Manager Woody Whitford and Head of Sound and Lighting Emilie Martin. The production was a testament to the collective efforts of students, who took on responsibilities in lighting, sound, photography, costuming, set design, and construction.
Set in the 1960s, this lively comedy follows the escapades of a Parisian-turned-American bachelor, Bernard, who is juggling relationships with three fiancées—each an airline stewardess. Freshman Nicholas Craddock takes on the role of Bernard, while the three stewardesses—an American, an Italian, and a German—are portrayed by Tilly Morgan, Amelia Fantham, and Claire Oslington, respectively.
The play opens as Bernard meets with his friend Robert, played by Dan. Bernard proudly explains his intricate system for dating multiple airline stewardesses, relying on their carefully timed schedules to keep each relationship under wraps. Confident in his arrangement, he assures Robert of its “foolproof” nature.
But Bernard’s plans quickly unravel when unexpected weather changes and faster Boeing jets throw his schedule off track, leading all three stewardesses to arrive at his apartment within hours of each other. The audience takes a front row seat to the chaos that ensues as Bernard and Robert scatter to pick up the pieces and try not to get caught.
As a classic farce, Boeing Boeing revels in exaggerated, satirical humour and leans heavily into physical comedy. This tone is captured brilliantly in the role of Bernard’s French maid, Bertha, portrayed with passion and vigour by Senior Student and former DramSoc director Ewan Jackman. Ewan’s Bertha injects the play with a combative cynicism and a quintessentially blunt French outlook, creating hilarious contrast to Bernard’s polygamous antics while adding a memorable layer of depth with her amusing romantic pursuit of Robert.
Nic Craddock’s Bernard embodied the arrogance of American idealism, nicely contrasted by Robert’s awkwardness and naiveté in the realm of romance. As the stewardesses, Claire, Tilly, and Amelia each brought a unique flair to their characters, effortlessly delivering vibrant American and European accents that enhanced their performances.
Giving insight into her role as director, Chloe reflected on the camaraderie amongst the cast members and the rewarding experience of seeing everyone’s hard work culminate on stage.
“I loved directing this year’s play because it gave me the chance to connect with the freshmen and strengthen friendships with those continuing from last year. While the role was challenging and demanding, being surrounded by such a supportive and talented team made the entire experience incredibly rewarding. With standout performances from Dan McSweeny, Ewan Jackman and the entire cast, we delivered, what I feel, was a hilarious rendition of a classic comedy”, said Chloe.
Producer Dan echoed Chloe’s sentiments and spoke highly of his experience both producing and acting.
“Dramsoc was such an enjoyable experience this year with Boeing Boeing; truly grateful to have had so much fun on the stage. Being a producer and actor was really quite busy, but at the same time very fulfilling. We worked with a talented team from all year levels, and I particularly enjoyed my close-quarter moments with Ewan (playing Bertha), and the screaming matches with Claire (playing Gretchen)”, said Dan.
Not to be overlooked were the raunchy cameos in the second act by Scarlett Pearce as Svetlana, a Russian pimp, and Woody Whitford as Chrystal, an Australian flight attendant. Their entrances amped up the tension as the audience awaited a climactic finale, witnessing the ultimate downfall of Bernard’s polyamorous ideals.
Safe to say the production was undoubtedly successful, adorned by students and staff alike, and a reminder to us all of the brilliance of student creativity and collaboration here at St Andrew’s. Until next year!