A trio of one-act plays blending comedy, drama and darker themes will soon take to the stage at Nelson’s Red Door Theatre.
Laughter and Loss is a collaboration between Nelson Repertory Theatre and Nelson Musical Theatre, offering audiences a mix of humour, reflection and intrigue across six performances.
Spokesperson Hugh Neill says the production is “an opportunity to come and see something a little bit different”, with shows running June 25–27 and July 2–4.
The evening opens with Sure Thing by David Ives, a 20-minute comedy about two strangers, Betty and Bill, whose chance meeting is repeatedly reset by the ringing of a bell, sending their conversation back to the beginning each time.
Next is In the Tank by Rosemary Frisino Toohey, another 20-minute comedy. It follows two lobsters in a seafood restaurant tank awaiting their fate. One has devised a strategy for survival, while the other questions fear, captivity and humanity.
The final play, Carmilla, is adapted by David MacDowell Blue from the novel by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the 70-minute drama explores dark vampire themes and features a cast of seven.
Hugh says the production brings together “a mixture of experienced and not so experienced actors” across all three plays.
Two directors are involved, with one leading Sure Thing and In the Tank, while Carmilla is directed by a first-timer.
Hugh says both societies are keen to encourage new talent.
Laughter and Loss will be staged at the Red Door Theatre from June 25–27 and July 2–4. Tickets are available through iTicket here.
