Time travel has always been in the public consciousness, with early influences such as HG Well's The Time Machine. In more recent years, with the resurgance of Doctor Who, as well as epic action films that include the DC and Marvel franchises, we have been more aware of the possibility of other dimensions and the intriguing aspect that different vibrational frequencies that other animals (such as cats) are able to hear, influence other choices that could have been made, opening up other possibilities. What if we were able to treat those other realms as we would an insurance claim? Could we gain compensation if certain choices were not able to be reversed? This is what Music For Cats explores in an intelligent, comical way.
Fun, intelligent and comically confusing, leaving us with food for thought
This interesting three-hander play showcases these dynamics fused with the sometimes insanely ineptness of office workers, creating a set up that is fast paced, questions logic and makes a strangely sane case for making a claim that involves the potential of having a second child that hasn't been accounted for in another life. Pryor (Andrew Crouch) is the one who challenges this particular rejected claim so he can make sure that the child is brought back. His frustration is felt when he keeps going round and round in circles trying to state that his 'photographic memory' is not made up and the biggest connection he has to this life is something that is music-like, but not quite. Almost like a lullaby that soothes a child crying. Crouch's angst is well handled and portrays the case in a way that goes beyond your normal insurance claim meeting. The comedy is also delivered with good pace and energy that keeps us engaged.
Matt Vickery takes on office worker Charlie who begins handling the case. His apporoach is a more gentle one which explores how stress can be a trigger if not handled the right way. The child-like exploration of this character as he sucks on a lollypop to calm him down and gradually reveals a potential internal error that could change Pryor's life is charming and playful, yet gives the impression that he in his own innocent way wants to make a difference when he sees the case unfold in front of him. Vickery has an element of surprise when he switches between states and is fun to watch.
As for Eleanor Stourton's Post, occasionally it is hard to hear some of her words in the beginning, but as Music For Cats progresses, she becomes more comfortable in her role. Post is an office manager who likes to play everything by the books and has a twang to her voice which Stourton satirises well; a tone that to someone trying to get something sorted out does not want to hear grating on their fragile mindset. The way she handles the two men and steps into Pryor's shoes is subtle, yet has impact on the action that follows.
Fun, intelligent and comically confusing, leaving us with food for thought.
