A Bunch of Amateurs

“A Bunch of Amateurs,” written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, attempts to blend humor and heartfelt moments through the story of a washed-up actor joining an amateur dramatic society.

The story follows Jefferson Steel, a faded Hollywood star who, in a bid to revive his career, inadvertently agrees to perform in a local British amateur production of “King Lear.”

The plot is rife with potential for comedic mishaps and character growth.

Chris Barron played Jefferson Steel, a role which balances comedy and drama in equal measure, which can at times be difficult to portray. Chris gave us a slightly over the top Jefferson, which occasionally overshadowed the complexity of the role- that said, his performance was well received on the night we attended.

The supporting actors, portraying the local amateur dramatists, offered variable, but solid performances. The most noteable performances being Jean Hunt, Helen Newell and John Brice.

Jean Hunt as Dorothy, the group’s director, stood out with a solid and believable portrayal, her frustration with her leading man (and all other performers) was palpable.

Helen Newell played Mary, starstruck owner of the Bed and Breakfast where Jefferson is staying, her confusion as to who Jefferson had actually played, and in which film, had the audience whimsically laughing.

John Brice as Nigel, self proclaimed Leading light of the Stratford players, was just the right side of annoying to keep the audience onside.

All other parts were played well- Jessica Steel (Mailis Dubois), Denis Dobbins (Colin Kendall) and Lauren Bell (Claire Boulter) all held their own.

I must say, I was a little distracted by the staging of the production - projected backdrop of a stage similar to the stage being performed on, didn't really transport me to the world of a small community owned theatre.

Scene changes felt a tad laboured - waiting for the "action" onstage to cease before bringing the next set on - thus losing momentum and leaving the audience with thirty seconds of "dead" space. 

I did feel that the (rushed) Shakespearean quotes at the end of most of the scenes/transitions would have been the perfect time to change the scenes, and may actually have been added for that reason.

I also note that the Director couldn't make a couple of the latter rehearsals, nor Tech and Dress due to unforseen circumstances,  where I'm sure Barbara`s keen eye would have corrected the above.

Lighting and costumes were good, and complimented the characters.

Whilst I do feel that the pace issues did affect the tone for the play, Director Barbara Sprinthorpe should be proud of the production, and the performers in it.

Thank you, Ulverston Outsiders, for your invite and hospitality.

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