A Kick in The Baubles

This comedy play was another hit for Sutton Arts Theatre, and it was a shame that it was not a sell out on the evening I went.

The play takes us into Christmas at the Bailey household, where money is tight following Frank’s recent redundancy. Jean (Joanne James), ever determined to create the perfect festive season, battles against Frank’s (Andy Jones) grumbling about the cost, the chaos, and the guests he’d rather avoid. Among them is Jean’s outspoken and judgemental sister Doreen (Lynette Coffey), accompanied by her materialistic and wandering-eyed husband Harry (Phil Shaw).

Uninvited visitors add to the event: neighbour Gary (Dan Holyhead), self-proclaimed karaoke star, and his uninhibited wife Julie (Bexs Perry). Doreen and Harry’s daughter Alex (Sophia Firkins) phones in with dramatic updates about her relationship, while Milly Bailey (played by Tilde Porter) and her boyfriend Darren (Daniel Charlton) eventually arrive with a surprise of their own.

Andy Jones gives a strong performance as Frank, handling a large amount of dialogue especially during his addresses to the audience about Christmas, women, and unwelcome guests. Joanne James is perfectly cast as Jean and reminded me of actress Sally Lyndsay.  Great acting. 

Phil Shaw, is convincing as the smooth‑talking businessman Harry, capturing both his bravado and discomfort within his failing marriage.

Lynette Coffey brings Doreen’s snobbishness and growing suspicion of Harry to life with great clarity.  Dan Holyhead and Bexs Perry gave great performances as the outrageous neighbours Gary and Julie.

Great support came from Sophia Firkins as Alex, Tilde Porter as Milly and Daniel Charlton as Darren.

Overall, this was a lively, well‑performed comedy that deserved a larger audience.  Maureen Green, directing her first play at Sutton Arts, should be proud of her cast.

Congratulations to you all.

 

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