Act Naturally

The Bramrocks are a shining example of Community Theatre at its best. They are choosing titles that fit perfectly into the Margaret Mack Room, a very cosy venue where the local community turn out and support it wholeheartedly.

Director Marne Causton was busy when I arrived, doubling up as stage hand during the performance.

Having thoroughly enjoyed last year’s break from the rush of musicals in May, to see Bramrocks’ staging of Benchmarks, they followed this up with another comedy title from Lazy Bee Scripts. Written by Giles Scott, Act Naturally follows the committee of The Historic Sites Preservation Society, who are meeting in the local village hall and struggling with a lack of funds to continue. After discussing numerous options for fundraising, they agree that putting on an original murder mystery with them all performing the parts, in the village hall, was the best way to raise money.

Act One set the scene around the committee table, with a simple but very nicely done set that went from the village hall, to the outdoors and a park in Act Two. Lighting and sound were particularly good, everyone giggling in Act Two to the responses and sounds coming from the Police radio.

The various interactions between the cast were excellent, and very convincing as we got to know the various characters. Louise Venn, as Mildred, the elderly Honorary Life President, had similarities to her character in Benchmarks, with some very funny quips, even ending up collapsed on a bench as she was shot in Act Two, with a very funny extended demise to finally collapse on the bench. As newly appointed Honorary Secretary, Nicky Grint was hilarious as she typified committees such as these, that spend vast amounts of time discussing what should and should not be minuted, and who can give an opinion and who cannot. Molly Bolton, as non-committee member Megan, becoming increasingly frustrated by all the red tape and procedure, was equally brilliant as she tries to contribute to proceedings. Linda Brand was very well cast as the Chair of the group Rowena as she tries to control everything. Similarly, Jessica Adby as committee member Bea with some well delivered quips and put downs. A special mention to Caitlin Parker, who played Police Officer Thea. Apparently, it was Caitlin’s first time on stage and she was a natural! The manner and tone in which she delivered the Police Officer type “language” was spot on. Finally, Sally Lloyd, as treasurer and allocated writer of the murder mystery to be performed, Sally really came into her own in Act Two as Mark Gordon, the Park Warden, with some hilarious play on words as the production she had written was hilariously performed by all.

Act Two was very funny as the play within a play suffered with many mishaps that most Amdram companies can relate to. Being in a community village hall, this was a fantastic choice of play, and I had a great time. Apparently, this was Marne Causton’s debut as a Director, I am sure it will not be his last.

My congratulations to all at The Bramrocks and for their hospitality.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.