A Bunch of Amateurs

A Bunch of Amateurs is a play written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, which was adapted from the original 2008 film. It tells the story of a fading American film star Jefferson Steel who believes that his agent has booked him to perform King Lear in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Upon arrival Jefferson soon discovers that it is not the birthplace of the ‘Bard’ but a sleepy village in Suffolk and that the cast are a bunch of amateurs called the ‘Stratford Players’.

In charge of the eclectic mix of personalities making up the Players is Dorothy Nettle, the Director, who informs the audience that the theatre is set to close unless they can raise a significant amount of funds and thanks us for our support. This directness invites the audience to step into the unfolding story and if you have ever been part of an amateur dramatic society you will indeed recognise many of the situations presented.

Dorothy the main female lead played by Michaela Turner gave a natural performance although some dialogue did come across as a little quiet during the first Act.

Jefferson Steel is an arrogant and disgruntled part and this was handled well by Mark Lord with a well-maintained American accent throughout.

Tony Holtham as the pompous Nigel Dewbury, solicitor and lead actor of the Stratford Players again gave us some memorable moments and an excellent performance all round. I particularly liked the scene when ‘like a diva’ he attempted to leave the production but is talked round by the Director.

Tilly Sayce-Evans played the disapproving daughter, Jessica Steel, neglected by her father who sets out to make him pay, again another good performance.

Clare McNeil as marketing executive, former physiotherapist and wife of the sponsor for King Lear looked totally comfortable in her role but required just a little more projection when delivering her dialogue.

Dave Ryder played Denis Dobbins the village handyman and delivered good characterisation in his performance and finally Jamie Evans played David with some lovely facial expressions.

It was Fiona Ashby as Mary Plunkett who stole the show for me as the proprietor of the ‘Rectory B&B’. Her adoration as a fan of Jefferson was unashamed and her facial expression simply delightful to watch, even though her character doesn’t always get the right films that Jefferson has starred in.

Kath Evans (the productions Director) had cast the show and it was the culmination of all performances that made this an enjoyable piece of theatre.

The set design was excellent and I was very impressed by the beams of the Cruck barn and the introduction of the set, which accumulated, in the final setting for the much-shortened version of ‘King Lear’.

This show was funny, entertaining and engaging, a great team effort by everyone involved and a lovely evening of live theatre.

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