Growing up all teenagers have their moments when they are an absolute nightmare – leaving parents tearing their hair out in frustration – but Jumpy shows this to the extreme.
Jumpy is a hilarious tale of teenage rebellion and a mother-daughter relationship that is so turbulent it has you laughing away while also wincing in painful recognition.
But not only does it deal with the struggles of growing up, it also explores the joys and woes of getting older.
Hilary (Sara Stewart) has just turned 50 and has hit a mid-life crisis – not only is she struggling with her age she’s also in a lifeless marriage, has lost her job and to top it off her relationship with daughter Tilly (Charlotte Beaumont) is at rock bottom.
Despite her attempts to be a good mum and salvage her relationship with her daughter, 15-year-old Tilly continues to terrorise her and generally drive her up the wall.
Stewart is exceptional as Hilary, playing the part to absolute perfection, and has the audience in the palm of her hand from the moment she shuffles onto the stage laden down with shopping bags.
There’s barely a moment she’s not on stage, even changing costumes in front of the audience – which may sound odd but works brilliantly thanks to the seamless and artistic scene changes under the direction of Lisa Spirling.
Beaumont puts in a stellar performance as the rebellious and headstrong Tilly, so much so that the audience are left in utter disbelief at her actions to the point where you almost want to get up and talk some sense into her.
While Ciara Baxendale, who plays her best friend Lyndsey, is also a delight.
The hilarious Kerry Peers also provides some great comedic moments as Hilary’s friend, Frances, most notably the moment she performs a cringe-worthy burlesque routine complete with corset and whip.
While there are plenty of laughs, Jumpy is thought-provoking and transports you back to the times in your youth where you might not have treated your parents very well.
Throughout I found myself remembering all the catfights I had with my own mum whether it be over makeup, staying out too late or simply just being rude and a pain – although never quite to the levels of Tilly.
And no doubt women of a certain age will share Hilary’s trials and tribulations of reaching 50, while parents themselves will have experienced drama with their own kids.
And that is where the magic lies – anybody whatever their age can relate to Jumpy in one way or another.
April De Angelis has hit the nail on the head with this painfully funny play, which is expertly brought to life by the talented cast.
Jumpy is at Theatr Clwyd in Mold and runs until April 2, for tickets call the Box Office on 01352 701521.
