Thursday Theatre Review: Top Girls

Soulpepper's website describes Top Girls as "both delightful comedy peppered with some of history's most compelling women, and scorching political examination of the role of women in contemporary society."

This is one of those shows where I've read the play and thoroughly enjoyed it, but had never seen it produced. I was a tiny bit worried that 'in real life' it would somehow pale to the production that was conjured up in my head while reading it. But I need'nt have worried, this production certainly did not disappoint.

Elaine was my show partner for this one, she can't often find time for theatre, but she enjoys it. She made time for this one, and she was glad she did. She really enjoyed this play and was intrigued by, and related to, its message. It's important, because the show was written in 1982 and was a critical look at the situation of the day. With shows like this there is always the danger that it feels disconnected in the current situation. This is not at all the case with this show.

The opening scene of the play is a bit surreal, Marlene (who we follow throughout the play) is hosting a dinner party to celebrate her promotion. Not so surreal, right? Except that the guests are all women figures from various points of history. The setting becomes more traditional after that scene, a back yard, a kitchen, an office, all with people who live in the same time as each other.

I really loved this show. The acting was stunning from everyone on stage. The fact that I could be thoughtful AND laugh lots is always a good combination for me. The run has been extended, now instead of closing August 4 it is running to August 18, so there's still time to get tickets.

Details:
- Top Girls runs Mon-Saturday until August 18 (the run has been extended)
- At the Young Centre (55 Mill Street - Distillery District)
- Tickets $32 - $56, student $28, rush $20, youth rush $5

Photo of Megan Follows, Anne-Marie MacDonald and Cara Pifko by Sandy Nicholson