A Tomb with a View

Centre Stage Theatre Company’s production of A Tomb with a View by Norman Robbins offered an evening of eccentricity, mystery, and darkly comic delight. Directed by Linda Boyd, the show captured the macabre humour of Robbins’ script and delivered plenty of laughs along the way.

Set in a decaying country mansion inhabited by the wonderfully odd Tomb family, the play depends on strong characterisation and timing, both of which were in good supply. Steve Clarke-Keating as Lucien Tomb perfectly embodied arrogance and self-importance, setting the tone for the evening. Chris Burton brought a fine touch of pomposity to Hamilton Penworthy, his crisp diction and measured delivery suiting the role well.

John Cowie gave a standout performance as Peregrine Potter, demonstrating excellent pacing and total immersion in character. Even in silence, his reactions and expressions added depth and humour to every scene. Rachael Ashworth’s Monica Tomb was confidently portrayed, with strong delivery and a clear sense of character. Taya Bosson impressed as Anne Franklin, offering a natural and assured performance.

Adam Burton tackled the complex dialogue of Marcus Tomb with confidence and gravitas, bringing an authority that anchored the family’s madness. Natasha Robson’s Emily Tomb showed fine comic timing and physical humour, though some dialogue was occasionally lost due to the challenge of eating on stage — a small quibble in an otherwise charming performance. Karen Flynn was suitably fluttery as Dora Tomb; despite a few moments of uncertainty with lines, she maintained enthusiasm and warmth. Alicia Hallworth made a brief but memorable impression as Freda Mountjoy, while Ingerlise Burden was a delight as Agatha Hammond, switching effortlessly between sinister and sunny with great effect.

Boyd’s direction brought clarity and creativity to this wordy, fast-moving play. The staging was inventive, particularly the use of secret passages that added intrigue and humour. Pacing occasionally lagged, but the production always recovered its momentum. The decision to have the cast freeze as the curtains closed at the end of each act created slightly awkward pauses; a simple blackout might have achieved a smoother effect.

These minor points aside, the performance was a clear success. The cast’s enthusiasm was infectious, and the audience responded warmly throughout, laughing and gasping in all the right places.

All told, this was an entertaining and well executed evening of comic mystery. With strong performances, inventive staging, and clear enjoyment from all involved, Centre Stage Theatre Company demonstrated the spirit and creativity that make amateur theatre so rewarding. A thoroughly enjoyable night out.  Well done to all.

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