A Bunch of Amateurs

We received a very warm welcome from Henry and Suzanna on our arrival to this wonderful comedy. It was written by Nick Newman and Ian Hislop and tells of a group of amateur actors in the Stratford Players. When things get tight financially they decide to invite a well known star to join them in the hope of drawing in some good audiences. Jefferson Steele accepts their offer thinking he will be playing King Lear professionally at Stratford Upon Avon. Alas no, he soon finds things a bit different from what he is used to in Hollywood.

This is one of those comedies where everything goes wrong, with elements of a slapstick comedy, not just in the dialogue but also in the physical elements. Their farcical timing in movement and lines was excellent and extremely funny and had their audience laughing from start to finish.

Neill Pearce is playing Jefferson Steele, he captures the overbearing American with an oversized ego which he plays brilliantly. He has difficulty in getting used to how things are done in Suffolk, but gradually starts to rethink his ideas and expectations. Sal Fulcher is the Director, Dorothy who is excellent and very believable in having to cope with actors arriving late and not knowing their lines. Something that many of us involved in theatre will have experienced, whilst feeling exasperated but keeping it well hidden and smiling, so as not to upset the cast.

George Holmes plays Nigel the old boy who has been with the Society for years, who always plays his parts slightly over the top, and his characterisation is just perfect. Jan Whittaker is Mary, the stalwart of the Society, always trying to ensure everything is just perfect and gets quite upset when things go wrong. An excellent portrayal.  Melissa Holmes is Jefferson’s daughter, exasperated with her father. Sam Broadley is Denis a very comical, always helpful character in the cast.   The whole cast,  including some of whom are on-stage almost all the time and virtually never  say a word, were all excellent and kept in character throughout.

The set all designed and constructed in house was effective and the final change of scene neatly done to maintain the pace and visual impact, as this was done open tabs. The lighting and wardrobe were just right for the setting.

This was very well cast and a well directed production by Henry and Suzanna. It was totally evident that they all had a great time rehearsing and performing despite numerous interruptions due to Covid. They certainly captured all the comedy and their timing was next to perfect.

Well done to Deben Players, this was just the comedy we all wanted after the last two years. They had also taken the decision to make all the tickets free as a gesture of goodwill in this current tough financial climate and to encourage those of a more nervous disposition to revisit our theatres. A bold move and I congratulate you in taking this, I’m sure a much appreciated gesture. 

Well done to Henry, Suzanna and all their cast and crew.

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