This term’s offering from one of Cambridge’s most prolific student writers, Tom Stuchfield, is far and away his best piece of writing yet. Whilst the show was a little long for an ADC late show, and could perhaps benefit from a touch of cutting, The Wives Of Others was thoroughly enjoyable. Stuchfield has a knack for snappy dialogue and it is this ability that helps the piece to capture, and maintain, the attention of the audience. The plot occasionally meanders but overall it is tightly written and, aided by some exceptional one-liners, the narrative flows well.

Amongst the strong cast, there were standout performances from Alice Carlill, whose Donna was consistently eye-catching even whilst outside of the dialogue, and Rebecca Thomas as Blackie. I don’t think I’ve ever found someone eating pasta so funny before. The acting on the whole is of a very high standard with the actors doing well to differentiate themselves in what could otherwise have been a confusing array of names and backstories. Rose Reade also delivered a strong performance despite her indeterminate age being one of a few confusing elements of the narrative. Her relationship with Carlill was perfectly pitched, regularly creating both humour and tension.   

As events spiral out of control, the piece does well to maintain its energy and Stuchfield’s manipulation of what on first appearance seems to be a fairly stationary set is skilful. Whilst commenting on special effects in student theatre always seems a little harsh, considering the play depended on them in the later stages, some of the less convincing technical effects did weaken the performance a little. However this was an impressive first night, and I am sure any technical difficulties will be sorted for the rest of the run.

If anything needs to be said about The Wives Of Others, it is that it makes for enthralling viewing. Whilst it has a few flaws, these are quickly forgiven and diminished by the overall quality of the show. A dark contrast to the humour of the Panto, Stuchfield and his ensemble produce an engaging performance, stuffed with wit, blood and a never-ending stream of Italian food. If you have a night free in this last week of term, this new piece of student writing is absolutely worth a watch.