Mayfield's "Escape From Happiness" was a success
By Anneleen Naudts

The cast of Escape from Happiness takes a final bow.

Mayfield Secondary School's production of Escape From Happiness was one of high caliber.

Written by Canadian playwright George F. Walker, Escape From Happiness is a black comedy featuring a troubled family in the midst of a crime investigation.

In the twisted aftermath of the opening act where Junior, husband of the family's youngest daughter, is seen wounded in the arms of his wife, the painfully dysfunctional family faces drug charges.

Directed by drama teacher Nicholas Kilbertus, Escape From Happiness proved Mayfield knows what it's doing when it comes to productions.

The play's subject matter may not render it an obvious pick for a high school production, but 10 well-cast, convincing and obviously talented actors made it work.

The cast seamlessly delivered the play's often witty and elaborate dialogue and the actors had a knack for both dramatic and comedic theatre.

The entire play is set in the family's slightly rundown kitchen and the intricate and detailed set was astounding. It featured a kitchen complete with oven, fridge, a working toaster, stocked cupboards, and wallpaper peeling of the walls. Everyday items like a board game or a phone book nonchalantly strewn about the room were indicative of the amount of thought and work that had gone into the production.

The play was in line with Mayfield's reputation for quality productions, and its directing, acting, sound and light design and set creation were top notch. The entire crew can be commended with its success.