Be honest, how many times have you posed this question, “what would you do if you won the Lottery?” I’ve done it often and chuckle to myself as I rarely even do the Lottery and we all know you’ve got to be in it to win it!
I was fortunate enough to be at the premier of The Syndicate on Thursday 18 April at Leeds Grand Theatre. I spent a fabulous evening watching five syndicate winners deal with the reality of becoming rich quick.
“For the love of money is the root of evil” is never truer when big bucks are at stake and this cleverly crafted piece by late, award-winning screenwriter, Kay Mellor, touches on it all. Greed, avarice, desperation, longing, duplicity, betrayal, self obsession and on the flip side generosity, compassion and gratitude. This storyline touches on it all. At times belly laugh out loud and at others evoking a deep sense of sadness.
From left to right: Kay Mellor, the cast of The Syndicate and Gaynor Faye
Starring Emmerdale’s Samantha Giles and Coronation Street’s Brooke Vincent, The Syndicate follows five supermarket employees whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat. The timing couldn’t be better, or could it? For the younger syndicate members, is having too much too soon really that healthy? Before the cheque has been cashed there’s a “Lambo” on the drive, designer art on the walls of the hastily rented four bed villa, the fridge is full of fizz and UberEats on speed dial, 24/7! Just a few examples of how this newfound wealth will be spent and the joy and happiness it will bring. But does it? Really?
Kay’s daughter, Gaynor Faye, an accomplished actress and writer in her own right, has done a superb job in producing and directing the entire piece. She also plays a cameo role as the National Lottery representative who verifies and advises the newly endowed multi millionaires.
The set is non fussy, I’d say purposely pared down to put the storytelling centre stage and each role was cast brilliantly.
It’s thought provoking and hugely entertaining from start to finish. I urge you to get along to Leeds Grand to see for yourself. Showing until Sunday 28th April and well worth the admission price. Money most definitely well spent.
As you leave, will you be asking yourself once more (as I did ..) “what would I do with a lottery win …?”
https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/whats-on/the-syndicate-2024
Images supplied
Review by Deana Morgan
