A dark-comedy about the lives of the Rogers and their relationship problems.
Casual Encounters provides a wry, curtain twitching look at suburban sexuality, and whilst entertaining, it could have been cranked up a notch to make the stakes higher to make it really sizzle.
Encouraged by a guidance counsellor to seek out new things in their marriage, James interprets this to mean a chance at wife swapping. As the younger couple arrive, there is a murkier side to the Morgans’ than it would at first seem. Rather than wife-swapping they decide to rob the couples they meet with scant regard for their victims.
Casual encounters they are not. James and Jennifer Rogers’ plans for the evening are sent awry and through the actions of Annette and Peter Morgan. They are forced to look at their relationship and what it was that led them to this moment. Humiliation for the older couple and fears of what may happen to them all assist this reassessment.
The play gives commentary on society today in what our expectations are and the sense of not knowing our neighbours or what goes on behind closed doors. For the older couple they get a chance to talk directly to each other and don’t gloss over the cracks but really communicate. The younger couple seem to get their kicks and thrills through stealing rather than sexual adventure.
David Scott-Lucas as James comes across as an affable and eager host, delivering a comfortable and safe portrayal. Joanna Pope as Jennifer Rogers gives a strong and commanding performance with emotional fluidity. Catherine Houston Eyers delivers a creditable role as Annette Morgan whilst Sean Meyer as Peter Morgan offers a casual villain in control. Lucia Coward as DS Cook races through her scene with aplomb.
Casual Encounters provides a wry, curtain twitching look at suburban sexuality, and whilst entertaining, it could have been cranked up a notch to make the stakes higher to make it really sizzle.
