A Play That Leaves You Thinking

This production of Waiting For Garbo by The Company of Legendary Children, is part of the Birmingham Fest, which is now in its third year.

Set in New York in the 1990’s the story is of three teenagers from different backgrounds. They are waiting for Greta Garbo to walk by, but is that the real reason they are there? In a short play (around 40 minutes) there are a number of difficult issues touched upon, mental health problems, homosexuality both open and hidden, bereavement and prostitution. 

There is a dark and gritty feel to the story as Artie slowly falls apart as he plans his next move with the aid of copious cigarettes. Freddie tries to help his friend as best he can while the third friend Tony seems to be in his own world. 

Antonio Khela plays the on the edge, slightly flamboyant Artie. The portrayal of brash New Yorker falling apart is utterly convincing. The writer of the piece, James Piercy, also stars as Freddie who seems reluctant to confess his real feelings, his torment is tangible. Nicholas Tuck’s Tony is a 
sensitive soul who cares deeply for his mum, he has hidden depths. Finally Charlotte (Emma Fall) appears and throws a little light on the situation. Her words of wisdom on life move the play to its conclusion.

A play like this leaves you with more questions than it answers, it is left to you to imagine what happens to the boys and what has gone before. It is good not to have everything handed to you on a plate. This is a strong one act play that leaves you thinking.