A Laughing Matter

Written by April De Angelis a contemporary writer ‘A Laughing Matter’ is a fictitious tale based on the activities of David Garrick in the theatre and literary world of the 18th Century. Roadwater Players approached this challenging piece in a style similar to that of the theatricals of the time, the staging quite static so that the words do the story telling. When Johnson, Burke, Reynolds, Boswell and Goldsmith meet in the Turks Head for their weekly meeting we were transported to this time and place. Visually the gentlemen were immaculately dressed and astute in their delivery and captured their audience from that moment. Moving on to Drury Lane the story unfolded, and we were introduced to Mr Garrick himself, a talented actor and the mainstay of the piece, not any easy role as he moved back and forth through his life: this at times was confusing due to only mild references through the costume, mainly that of the ladies which was difficult as there was not quite enough fashion references evident. But the piece held together well and we were treated to some excellent characterisation, highlights being Lady Kingston, who looked fantastic and moved perfectly, catching our eye with her quick wit and naughty twinkle, the lovely Sam Cautherley and of course Mr Garrick and our guide through the whole affair Mr Johnson. The technical team also deserve a round of applause wardrobe especially as there were some beautiful period costumes on stage. This was not an easy piece of theatre by any means and a grand job was undertaken and achieved.

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