A Bunch of Amaterus

This exceptionally funny staging of “A Bunch of Amateurs” was skilfully planned and directed by John Varlow, supported by an outstanding cast and technical crew. The cast of eight actors seamlessly switched between Shakespearean and regular roles and with exaggerated performances and rapid dialogue. Every cast member expertly portrayed their characters and maintained a strong pace throughout. At the same time, the cast manoeuvred with ease the props for the necessary scenes and there was music to suit during these scene changes. This production ticked all the boxes.

The amateur acting troupe "Stratford Players" wishes to stage Shakespeare's renowned play, King Lear. However, things are not going as planned; membership has dwindled, the performance venue is deteriorating, and the few remaining actors must take on multiple roles. Their director, Dorothy Nettle, was played brilliantly by Jolene Varlow and the copious amounts of dialogue flowed with ease. Dorothy constantly encourages the cast in order to keep up their enthusiasm, but this is not easy. It was then suggested that what the players need is a famous actor to boost their ticket sales. Chance in a million, someone said.

Their fortune changes unexpectedly when Jefferson Steel, an egotistical Hollywood star, flies to England believing he is to play the lead role in King Lear at "Stratford." However, he soon discovers that it isn't in Stratford-upon-Avon, the famous birthplace of William Shakespeare, but instead with an amateur drama group called the "Stratford Players" in a Suffolk village near Stratford-St-John. This is a mistake that's easy to make and it gives rise to a lot of misunderstandings and very funny scenes. David Colston was brilliant as Jefferson Steel with a very good American accent, abundant quick flowing dialogue and endless energy. 

Some members of “Stratford Players” dislike him, possibly due to jealousy among the male actors. Mary Plunkett is immediately infatuated and almost throws herself at his feet. Ellie Dearle portrayed Mary with excellent comic timing and body language.

Nigel Dewberry, the self-proclaimed leading man, makes clear his belief that he deserves major roles like King Lear over Steel - a great performance from Andy Firth.Giving a very good performance was Kevin Shipley as Denis Dobbins. Denis does all the non-acting jobs for the group, but at times must fulfil other roles as and when required.  Wearing his flat cap while quoting Shakespeare is a novelty.

Things are not going to plan at all; Steel is not as successful in Hollywood as he makes out, but after some persuasion from Dorothy, plus a little kiss, he decides to help them out with the play. However, Jefferson Steel's daughter, Jessica, unexpectedly arrives and their strained relationship creates more tension. Martha Showell-Nicholas impressively captured Jessica's shifting emotions, especially during a King Lear scene - excellent work from a young actor.

When a local brewery hears that a famous Hollywood star is working with the players, they agree to sponsor them and a member of the brewery, Lauren Bell, joins in. Fiona Firth was perfect in this larger-than life role, especially in the scenes with Jefferson when she uses her skill as a physiotherapist to release back pain he had sustained. This scene is watched but totally mis-interpreted by Mary, leading to more trouble for Jefferson.

Misunderstandings occur as the play progresses with members of the cast falling out; however, the Stratford Players do eventually manage to perform King Lear. The cast quickly changing into Shakespearean costumes, with lots and of lots of over-the -top acting, all made this a hilarious performance.

Alongside the quick costume changes and change of scene, Daniel Wilson as "The Fool" skilfully delivered dialogue to explain all the events and maintain the ease and flow of the play.

Congratulations to all the members of The Pierrot Players. They always provide first-class performances, which can only be achieved by hard work from the director, cast, production, technical settings, back-stage team and front-of house staff.

Thank you again for the invite, the warm hospitality and a thoroughly enjoyable evening. Thank you for making us laugh out loud.

Sue Cox - Drama Rep Region 14

NODA N.E

 

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