By: Treldon Layne
November 10, 2026
There is something truly special about experiencing live theatre, particularly when a production has the ability to captivate, entertain and leave you wanting more.
As I entered Queen’s Hall alongside my great friend and fellow life enthusiast, Anne-Marie Armaud-Thomas, we were filled with excitement and anticipation for what promised to be an enjoyable theatrical experience.
I attended The Best Little Whorehouse in Guapo, presented by CPR Productions, on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 8:30 p.m.
Queen’s Hall was, as usual, well maintained, with a welcoming atmosphere and an enthusiastic audience. The lobby was filled with excitement as patrons gathered in anticipation of the evening’s performance. I was particularly excited to see this production because it reminded me of another presentation by the same creative team that had previously captivated my attention and left me wanting more.
And, once again, CPR Productions did not disappoint!
Before sharing my overall impressions, I must acknowledge the cast members whose individual performances contributed to making this production such an entertaining experience.
THE PERFORMANCES
Penelope Spencer — Frances
Penelope Spencer was certainly in her element as Frances! Her character’s unmistakable affection for alcohol became a recurring source of entertainment throughout the production. Her commanding voice, confidence, expressive delivery and remarkable ability to maintain the character’s drunken disposition kept me thoroughly entertained.
She captured my attention with her portrayal of a woman who was very much in control of her own domain, even while seemingly under the influence. Her comedic timing and stage presence were particularly impressive.
Penny, your performance exceeded expectations once again. An excellent job!
Cecilia Salazar — Carmen
Cecilia Salazar portrayed Carmen as a boss with a compassionate side. What I particularly appreciated about her character was the willingness to look beyond circumstances and extend assistance to one of her girls who was experiencing financial difficulties.
Her character demonstrated that leadership is not simply about giving instructions or exercising authority; it is also about compassion, understanding and recognising the potential in others.
It was refreshing to see how creativity, encouragement and a little compassion could help someone discover and develop her abilities.
Cecilia, you certainly handled your role exceptionally well. You made being the boss look effortless! I would love to be part of your establishment. Please give me a call!
Ro’dey Cumberbatch — Bob Robert
Ro’dey Cumberbatch brought an interesting and entertaining presence to the stage as Bob Robert.
His character had an inspiring and motivational quality that I particularly appreciated. I also enjoyed the humorous element surrounding his sweet tooth, which became an entertaining feature of his portrayal.
I will not reveal too much because audiences deserve the pleasure of discovering these moments for themselves!
What stood out to me was his confidence, discipline, stage presence and ability to communicate the character’s personality effectively.
Ro’dey, you demonstrated your craft beautifully, and your performance was well received. Thank you for a job well done!
Serran Clarke — Anita
Serran Clarke’s portrayal of Anita offered an interesting perspective on innocence, vulnerability, personal development and the importance of education.
Anita appeared somewhat naive and inexperienced in navigating the realities of the world, perhaps influenced by the limitations of her upbringing and educational opportunities.
However, what I particularly appreciated about this character was her determination to discover her greatness through reading.
As someone who values personal development and continuous learning, I found this especially meaningful. Reading remains one of the most powerful ways to expand our knowledge, improve our vocabulary and develop a greater understanding of the world around us.
Anita’s journey reminded me that our circumstances do not have to determine our intellectual potential.
Serran, your delivery, expressive language and excellent use of words added another dimension to the character. Your performance was engaging, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching you bring Anita to life.
Well played!
Shevonne Metivier — Natalie
Shevonne Metivier brought an interesting combination of confidence, charm, vulnerability and streetwise intelligence to her portrayal of Natalie.
I particularly enjoyed how quickly her character appeared to understand the realities and workings of her environment. Her costumes were on point, and her overall presentation contributed beautifully to the character’s identity.
What fascinated me was the contrast between her apparent innocence and her underlying knowledge of the world around her.
Shevonne, your interpretation of the character was engaging, and you demonstrated a commendable understanding of the role. Your stage presence and delivery certainly captured my attention.
I look forward to seeing you grace the stage again. Thank you for giving the audience such an entertaining portrayal!
Rachel Bascombe — Miss Clara
Rachel Bascombe’s portrayal of Miss Clara was particularly interesting because it explored reputation, religion, personal identity, emotional conflict and the influence of public perception.
Her character appeared deeply conscious of her name and reputation within the village, with considerable attention given to what others might say or think about her.
One reflection I took away from this character is that we should never allow our lives to become governed by the opinions of others. We must learn to embrace ourselves, find happiness within and develop the courage to live authentically.
When Miss Clara entered with the pistol, the scene introduced another dimension to her character. It demonstrated how hurt, disappointment and emotional pain can influence our actions and decisions.
I felt her pain, passion, sense of duty towards her family and the emotional complexities surrounding the man she loved.
Rachel, you delivered a compelling performance. You allowed the audience to connect with the emotional depth of your character, and I certainly appreciated your contribution to the production.
Excellent work, my friend. I look forward to seeing you on stage again!
DIRECTION, STORYTELLING AND OVERALL PRODUCTION
Adapted and directed by Penelope Spencer and presented by CPR Productions, The Best Little Whorehouse in Guapo demonstrated the importance of effective storytelling, creative direction and the collective contribution of a committed theatrical team.
What I particularly appreciated was the production’s ability to communicate its story while maintaining the audience’s attention throughout.
The dialogue, clever wordplay, comedic delivery and character interactions were well received, generating several moments of spontaneous laughter and enthusiastic reactions from the audience.
The costumes also contributed significantly to the overall presentation, helping to establish the personalities and identities of the characters.
It was evident that preparation, creativity and dedication went into bringing this production to life. Each performer contributed something distinctive, and together they created an entertaining theatrical experience.
To Penelope Spencer, CPR Productions and the entire cast and production team, I extend my sincere congratulations. You delivered a production that entertained, engaged and kept me wanting more.
MY FINAL VERDICT: FIVE OUT OF FIVE STARS!
★★★★★
I must acknowledge a very good friend whose words encouraged me to approach my writing with greater transparency and credibility. That advice stayed with me, and I believe honest criticism is just as important as commendation.
With that in mind, my final assessment is based on my genuine experience as an audience member.
I award The Best Little Whorehouse in Guapo a well-deserved FIVE OUT OF FIVE STARS!
Why? Because you kept me engaged, you kept me laughing, you held my attention, and you gave me plenty to appreciate, from the performances and dialogue to the costumes and overall presentation.
You demonstrated excellence in your respective roles, and I applaud the commitment and dedication that went into making this production a success.
To the entire team, thank you for giving your best on stage. Your efforts were certainly appreciated.
SUPPORT LOCAL THEATRE!
I encourage everyone to continue supporting our local theatre fraternity. Our actors, directors, writers, producers and technical teams deserve recognition, appreciation and continued support.
Local theatre remains an important part of our cultural identity. It provides opportunities for creativity, storytelling, artistic expression and the development of our local talent.
Let us continue to support those who dedicate their time and abilities to keeping the performing arts alive in Trinidad and Tobago.
To CPR Productions and everyone involved in The Best Little Whorehouse in Guapo, I tip my hat to you!
Keep creating. Keep entertaining. Keep telling our stories.
And, as we say in theatre, BREAK A LEG!
You were simply the best!
Treldon Layne
Theatre Reviewer | Author | Poet | Purpose Life Coach
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