Cynthia Prendergast, Contributor

Shelly (Terri Salmon) instructs Patsy to dance as Lady Saw in 'Concubine?' at The Pantry Playhouse, last week Wednesday. - Nathaniel Stewart/Freelance Photographer

The sold-out house at the Pantry Playhouse at the recent gala premiere of Aston Cooke's Concubine? became quite boisterous as they expressed both satisfaction and empathy throughout the entire performance.

Cooke's Concubine? is indeed another hit play. This hilarious thought-provoking comedy looks at the issues of common law relationships in Jamaica and the rights of the individuals involved, particularly the woman.

In Concubine?, Winston (Chris McFarlane) and Patsy (Dahlia Harris) lived together in a common-law relationship for 15 years, until Winston asks Patsy to leave the house so he could get married to a younger woman. All hell breaks loose as Patsy refuses to vacate the house, which she had called home for 15 years.

Common-law relationships are common in Jamaica and some years ago, the Government passed a law which gave legal rights and protection to persons who have lived together continuously for at least five years. Cooke's well-crafted script can be seen as championing the rights of the woman in this arrangement. The characters are clearly defined and well developed.

There are some outstanding performances in Concubine? led by Dahlia Harris with the brilliant portrayal of the lead role, Patsy. Ms. Harris can now take centrestage in the acting arena as she convincingly captured the wide range of emotions of a concubine scorned. Was that real tears I saw?

Good chemistry

Supporting actress, Terri Salmon (Shelly), brought much life and energy to the show from the moment she entered the stage as Patsy's best friend Shelly. It was a joy to see the chemistry displayed by these two women as they worked the stage at the Pantry Playhouse. Actor Boy winner, Christopher McFarlane, was quite believable in his role as Winston. Jerry Benzwick and the beautiful Marsha Campbell added much colour to the character landscape.

Designer Eric Junior has delivered one of the best sets in recent times. It worked well in the Pantry stage and coupled with the appropriate and bright costumes worn by the performers, the design elements of the show must be applauded.

Concubine? Continues its run at the Pantry Playhouse Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. with matinée performances on Sundays at 6:00 p.m.