LAST Friday’s opening night for Dahlia Harris’ play Thicker Than Water was a tough one, but she is not ready to ring alarm bells.

For writer/director/ producer, the opening weekend was filled with the usual ups and downs associated with the premiere of any production.

“We all forgot our lines and had to make our way through on opening night, but that’s theatre for you,” Harris told the Jamaica Observer. She says the audience’s response was better than expected.

“Based on feedback, they were very intrigued by the diverse women and their stories and could readily translate the various scenarios to their own place of work,” she said.

Television Jamaica anchor/ reporter Janella Precius made her debut in the production which plays at Stages Theatreplex in New Kingston, St Andrew.

She says she is gaining confidence in her new role. Prior to opening night, the St Lucia-born Precius expressed trepidation going into her first role in commercial theatre.

“I was so nervous on Friday. It was my first time performing in front of so many people. When I am in studio presenting a newscast it’s just me and, perhaps, three cameramen. On stage, the audience is right there. That faded away somewhat by Saturday and by Sunday; I felt much more comfortable,” Precius says.

Harris has nothing but high praise for Precius.

“Janella is truly a gem to have on the team. She shone through with one patron remarking ‘shi play dat uptown snob too good. I hope a nuh so she really stay’.”

The play continues this weekend.