A Bunch of Amateurs

We received a warm welcome from Front of House Manager and fellow Noda Rep, Richard FItt who introduced us to first time Director Brett Nunn.

As we took our seats, I was intrigued to see that the opening Barn Theatre scene was already set on the floor in front of the stage. This was the start of very effective use of the whole building as a performance space, as well as a split stage set which was well designed by Paul Robbins. The second scene Press Conference video was well produced and caused much hilarity in the audience. I thought the use of fire escapes and steps up to the stage was well managed and enabled scene changes to happen without too much delay. Sound and lighting, by Dave and Kate Maltby was appropriate, although I did miss a few ‘punch lines’ and there were a couple of lighting hitches which was a shame.

Keen to boost his flagging career, ex Hollywood action hero, Jefferson Steele, played by Don McKay, takes a job playing King Lear in Stratford thinking he is going to be performing with Kenneth Branagh and Judi Dench, instead he is to perform with the Stratford Players who are trying to save their theatre from developers and are based in a sleepy Suffolk village Stratford St Mary! Don played this overbearing and obnoxious character very well, maintaining his accent throughout. There was a touch of Edward G Robinson in his performance, which I enjoyed.

I have to say that my star prop was the mobility ‘limo’ – it’s entrance was beautifully timed by Tony Watson in his role as local handyman Dennis Dobbins. Tony also provided some good comedy moments, the ping pong ball scene was extremely funny.

Trying to desperately keep the troupe together is Director, Dorothy Nettie portrayed Lucy Crawford. This was achieved in a calm and authoritative way and the rollercoaster of emotions required were very believable.  The delightfully pompous and besotted Nigel Dewbury played by Tom Kirkbride was a good contrast to Dorothy. Sylvie Townsend as Mary Plunkett was a lovely B&B hostess and amused the audience by getting completely confused about Jefferson’s previous film roles.

Maxine McKay as Lauren Bell, the wife of the local brewery owner and ex physiotherapist was very convincing. Amy Saffrette, as Jefferson’s estranged daughter Jessica was delightfully sarcastic, whilst also being able to show the softer side of this character. She was also able to cope with an unexpected moving piece of scenery very well.

The pace of the play did occasionally drop, caused mostly by a few slow scene changes which was a shame, but overall I did enjoy the performance.

Thank-you for a lovely evening.

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