There is something special about a premiere of a new work by Stephen House. Having penned around 16 plays, each is eagerly anticipated, reflecting a social commentary of life.

His latest work, Borrowed Time takes seven well seasoned actors who were once successfully famous in a high rating television series of the same name. Three decades later, the series is being re-run late at night, in an attempt to relive a glorious past they regroup, waiting for that one last call.

Delving into the issues surrounding aging and the personal journeys of hope and heartache, past and present revelations unfold, as each individual copes in their own way, that last fading moment of success. Only to be thrown onto the inevitable slack heap of life.

In the cozy surrounds of the Bakehouse Theatre, Stephen House has assembled a fine ensemble cast that includes Chrissie Page, Jacqy Phillips, Wayne Anthony, Michael Baldwin, Anna Pike, Bridget Walters and Roger Newcombe.

In a minimally staged production with only a few pieces of furniture against the black surrounds, it allows the cast to perform on a blank canvas with only their thoughts, ambitions and emotions on display.

While the action is time and place neutral, there are glimmers of where this maybe; a nursing home, a studio greenroom, or God’s waiting room. Though the clue may lie with the intermittent ring of the telephone, we are never fully told.

Susan Grey Gardiner’s lighting design was simple yet effective. The use of subtle colours in the reflective moments heightened the action, though the non revolving mirror ball slightly detracted the mood.

While some of the language is colourful and some of the revelations may surprise, amongst the comic banter, Borrowed Time is not afraid to take the audience into a grim reality check of the issues facing our aging population. A thought provoking piece of theatre!