Messy Kind’s new play Chilli Con Carne had its first performance at Beedon Village Hall.

Sonia (Tor Lighten) has arrived unexpectedly in Ash’s (Sarah Vickers) house in Newcastle. As teenagers the two had been lovers but following a series of traumatic events Sonia moved to London and they lost touch. Now, ten years later, Sonia has returned to find Ash has just been to her mother’s funeral and is engaged to Tom (Charles Maddison).

Tom knows about the two girls’ history together and this adds an extra level of complication: their feelings and emotions are confused. Sonia has to return to London on business for two months and when she returns, Ash has difficult choices to make.

The ‘magpie’ nursery rhyme (one for sorrow, two for joy… seven for a secret never told) starts the show, sung a capella in harmony by the three, and is repeated several times – as the secrets of the past come out…

The play, written by Sarah Vickers, is very cleverly done, concentrating on the changing emotions of the three characters. It’s only an hour long but with the twists it’s gripping throughout, with strong performances from all three.

Directed by Hugo Papiernik, the set is empty apart from two stools, and there are no props at all: food, drink and mobile phones are just hinted at. An unusual and enjoyable production, which played to a full house.

It now goes to London for two nights, Newcastle Fringe for three nights and Camden Fringe for five nights.

messykind.com

PAUL SHAVE