Plymouth Theatre Review

Easy to Follow: 5/5

Family Friendly: 3/5

Must see: 4/5

Title: Bothered & Bewildered 

Venue: The Watermark Ivybridge 

Date: 11th March 2025

‘Bothered and Bewildered’ is a window into the family life of Irene, through the eyes of her two daughters as they come to grips with their mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s. This captivating comedic drama, often blends it’s primary naturalistic voice with hints of surrealism, prompting the audience to imagine the characters’ unique realities.

The ensemble tactically weaves the threads of this fictitious world together like a beautiful tapestry. Arising out of the timeline of events, we are instantly met with the parallel between daughters, Beth and Louise, played by Sarah Jones and Rachel White respectively. Beth’s catty, dry demeanor paints her in a contrasting light to Louise’s blind optimism. This dynamic is held up against a neutral consultant, as they have sit down meetings to discuss their mother’s debilitating condition. Act 1 takes the shape of an alternating sequence of these meetings and scenes from their lived experiences. Jenny Deakin’s performance as Irene was exceptional in tonality and pacing. The spirited highs of her love and passion for her family displayed a bright zest for life. The downward spiral Irene succumbs to from Act 1 to 2 shows incredible range and versatility. 

Bits and pieces of Irene’s life, before taken by her condition, are whimsically animated in these short, confessional duologues with her imaginary companion, Barbra Cartland, who radiates eccentricism.

The dual set orientation works remarkably well for the format of the text. There were particular details that seamlessly fed into the narrative: paintings being askew, then straightened later on, the warm palette of the home juxtaposing the cold unfeeling atmosphere of the office. The effective, though at times unconventional, use of the many props laid across the set, all showed the attention to detail that was considered in the process.

One thing that stands out most of all is the gentle comedic moments. At times these comedic bursts felt a bit disconnected from the overall energy of the scene and somewhat forced. Regardless, the comedy cuts through the mix of their grimly frustrating reality, illustrating the true experience of “slowly losing their mother in spirit but not body.” Throughout the toughest of moments, laughter reminds us of the overflowing love and understanding a family has.

Backed by an ensemble of dedicated actors, this show eloquently tells Irene’s story in a digestible manner. It highlights the struggles and strife of the everyday interaction with Alzheimer’s in a hopeful, educational light.

Review by Bradley Gunness

*Gifted – This theatre review was written following a gifted ticket to the performance. However, all opinions and views expressed in this review are entirely that of the reviewer and the review has not been influenced in any way by the provision of the ticket. Our commitment remains to provide an honest and unbiased assessment of the experience.