CHARACTERS

Eric – An actor – 73

PERFORMANCE HISTORY

First performed on 22 November 2020 as part of ‘VIRTUALLY ACTING’ by The Mitre Players – ERIC was performed by WARWICK JONES

You can watch the performance here

REVIEWS

‘Ah, the smell of the crowd, the roar of the grease paint! I’m not sure just how much of this tale of a would be thespian is Paul’s recollection or his imagination, but I felt for his luckless character. As a Glaswegian, I can well imagine him on stage next to some talentless but considerably louder fellow player. But fear not good readers, what has been lost to the Globe is now our pleasure as he has swapped make up for pen and ink. Paul Smith, I felt for you…’ – David Patton on New Play Exchange

‘I love this monologue in contrast with “I will never play Juliet”, I wonder if they were performed together in the past? It captures the subtle differences of male and female ego when in direct comparison. Would truly be a joy to see both of these performed as they are so skillfully written as to provide so much to work with for the actors delivering them.’ – Evan Spreen on New Play Exchange

Smith’s lovely ode to the actor, aged out of roles – and looking back – could express the melancholy of a host of reminiscences, lost opportunities, or just the slow fade of time, that catches up with us all, eventually. The character bemoans the resolution that he’ll never play the great prince, that he will always be the sidekick, the fodder, the fool – Can he make peace with it? And how does that light a way forward? A terrific piece for a mature actor, which we need more of. – Rachel Carnes on New Play Exchange

This beautiful monologue takes you on a journey of desire and longing, but with an edge of comedy that elevates it beyond a typical genre. Paul Smith’s, I WILL NEVER PLAY HAMLET, is layered with emotional honesty and authenticity, and a perfect monologue for an older actor looking to portray complex emotions as a finely crafted character. – John Mabey on New Play Exchange

‘What a beautiful monologue about art and aging and letting go of dreams. It’s bittersweet and a fantastic opportunity for an older actor. Lovely work!’ – Lisa Dellagiarino Feriend on New Play Exchange

RUNNING TIME

5 minutes

PREVIEW

Preview available HERE