Prenger fits the bill very nicely in this role, she has the smoky-toned voice to convey with depth and integrity what she is trying to say, clearly making the point that you don’t always need words to get your point of view across. However, Dobson stands strong in her role, bringing an understated nuance of pain and love for her mother in equal measure – the constant bickering in no way belying the very real intimate love between the two of them. In her portrayal of Jo, Dobson manages to find the exasperation and exhaustion that a young girl in the throes of puberty, first love and wanton mood swings experiences with a sense of ease.
Given that this is not a new piece of theatre, it is well handled with themes that are relevant today, racism, poverty, and homosexuality amongst others proving that it is a play that stands the test of time and this adaption serves well. This is a thought provoking piece that is well worth the watch.