Marvin’s Room
Full-Length Play
Bessie, a strong-willed woman, takes care of her bedridden father and eccentric Aunt Ruth. After Bessie is diagnosed with leukemia, her estranged sister, Lee, comes to visit and to be tested as a possible bone marrow donor for her sister. The reunion between the sisters is initially uncomfortable, aggravated by the difficult behavior of Lee's two sons. The two women eventually confront their shortcomings as sisters, reach out to each other, and arrive at an understanding about the importance of family.
THE TEAM
Written by Scott McPherson
Directed by Roslyn Johnson
Assistant Director & Stage Manager: Meg-Louise Snieder
Cast: Fiona Kennedy (Bessie), Elise Lamb (Lee), Jayden McGinlay (Hank), Kieran McGinlay (Charlie), Phillipa Bowe (Aunt Ruth), Tom Harwood, Marita McVeigh & Nicholas Sayers
PRODUCTION
Ad Astra Theatre Company, Brisbane, Australia (2022)
Reviews
“… the free-spirited Lee (a standout Elise Lamb) …
All members of the cast impress, however, the story’s telling rests upon the sisters at its centre. Most notably, Lamb’s nuanced performance gives Lee a vulnerability beneath her tough veneer, with her glances about and fidgety movement conveying a sense of insecurity that her words belie.”
“Leading this cast is Fiona Kennedy as Bessie and Elise Lamb as Lee. These two actors are seasoned professionals and you can see this in their performance …
Lamb as the estranged sister is a perfect casting choice. Lamb is hilarious with her hard-hitting one-liners and hysterical movements. And when it comes down to it, Lamb shows the intricate, softer side of Lee with skill and grace.”
