“Noises Off” is a classic comedy written by Michael Frayn in 1982. Since its debut, it’s held its reputation as one of the funniest plays ever written and performed, known for both the physical comedy and the fast-paced action within. Frayn wrote “Noises Off” after watching over the rehearsal of one of his other plays, where he commented, “It was funnier from behind than in front and I thought that one day I must write a farce from behind.”
The year it was published, the play won an Olivier Award for Best Play along with a London Evening Standard Award for Best Comedy. Additionally, two years after publication the show won a Drama Desk Award, an Outer Critics Circle Award and was even nominated for a Tony Award. This well-known show has been at the top of many critics’ favorite choice awards, and after seeing the performance it will be yours too.
This year’s performance, directed by Eastern University’s Valerie Flower, Theatre Program Director and Professor of Theatre, is set to be equally as captivating under her supervision as the 1982 version.
In short, the play is simple and easy to follow, though nevertheless hilarious and extremely captivating. It’s set to be a “play within a play” and follows a theater group as they rehearse and perform their British-English play, “Nothing’s On”.
The three-act play begins with seeing the theater troupe rush around their final rehearsal. It is abundantly clear that they are nowhere near ready for a show, but they are out of rehearsal time. The actors seem to be forgetting their blocking, misplacing props, and dressing in the wrong costumes. In the second act, the audience is let into the backstage of the performance, and this is where things begin to truly unravel for the group. The chaos prior to opening night is astonishing as the cast is running around trying to fix sets and memorize lines. Then, we are taken into the third act of the play, after seven weeks on tour, where the audience sees the final performance of Nothing’s On. Between the stressed director, Lloyd; the forgetful leading lady, Dotty; and Garry, the jealous actor, the characters add to the comedic appeal of the play through their mistakes and painful interactions. Unfortunately, the troupe never improved their acting, timing or blocking skills throughout their time on tour, but thankfully for the audience, the comedic timing and painful interactions became even more funny as time went on. This author does not wish to further spoil the action, so you must see the destruction and chaos for yourself.
Actors and stagehands alike agree that “Noises Off” is a unique performance unlike many shows today. It is no easy task to perfectly perform a play where everything is supposed to go wrong, but the brilliance of the director and her cast reflects their dedication. Daniel Carter, the show’s stage manager comments “Students should come to see the show not only to applaud their peers on their hard work but to take a break from their studies and enjoy a show that will bring audience members laughter and joy. Personally there hasn’t been not one rehearsal I haven’t laughed during a full run of the show because it’s really enjoyable to watch! Come support your peers!!”
Bailey Gutelius, a junior playing Dotty and Mrs. Clackett remarks “The most exciting part of preparing for our performances has been in the moments or rehearsals where we collectively realize the motives or comedic perspectives in what we are trying to accomplish and convey to the audience. Those moments where we all just kind of look at each other and realize we get to show this incredible process to our loved ones.”
Gutelius finishes by saying “‘Noises Off’ holds such a special place in my heart. Comedy has always been a sought-after genre for me, since life often causes a lot of stress and unpredictability. Watching a show like ‘Noises Off’ allows you the chance to feel what I have felt during this entire process- leaving everything at the door to share some laughs with the people you love.”
The New York Times also notes that “Noises Off” is “The most dexterously realized comedy ever about putting on a comedy. A spectacularly funny, peerless backstage farce. This dizzy, well-known romp is festival of delirium.” Eastern’s amazing actors, physical comedy, quick humor and impeccable timing all combined create a unique experience for the audience. This play is perfect for friends who wish to have a fun night out, or for students and staff to laugh and enjoy the comedic show.
“Noises Off” will be performed in the McInnis Theater November 7-9 at 7 p.m. and November 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase for $15, however, they offer discounts for students and seniors making their tickets $5. Their website also notes that a group of ten or more general tickets will be lowered to $7, instead of $15, making this the perfect opportunity to grab a group of friends and see the show!
Eastern University’s website highlights that the theater department offers a B.A and a minor in theater, promoting “both a traditional liberal arts education and a rich array of hands-on theater training experiences.” From their diverse range of predictions to the sheer number of shows they do in a school year, it is clear that the theater department is dedicated to student education and development.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of theater or just looking for a night of laughter, Noises Off gives the audience an unforgettable experience filled with humor, mayhem, and non-stop chaos.Buy your tickets now! https://easternarts.ticketleap.com/noises-off/
Josh Steen 
Chloe Rupe 
Ethan Goonewardene