AGATHA CRUSTY and the VILLAGE HALL MURDERS

Following the pre Covid Production of their successful ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles’, this talented Company breezed back with this Comedy by Derek Webb, ‘Agatha Crusty (pronounced Croosty) and the Village Hall Murders’. It was just the tonic required after two years of lockdown, and the evening certainly came up to expectation.  Set in The All Saints Village Hall, the characters were what we expected from a close village community, where everyone knows everyone else’s business. The set was dressed with all the usual props one would find in a village hall, and the scenes were changed efficiently by cast members assisted by efficient Stage crew. Appropriate music was played during all scene changes which were swiftly executed and  made the piece flow.

Ian Wilson, as the typically dressed Caretaker, ‘Harry Knott’ complete with brown overall and broad Lancashire accent, doubled up as PC Lockett, completely changing from one character to the other without a thought. His understanding of these two characters resulted in many thought provoking moments as to ‘who done it’. Judith Williams was well cast as ‘Agatha’, giving us a understanding and positive portrayal of this wonderful lady, never faltering in the delivery of her wordy script, particularly during her explanation towards the final stages of the piece.  ‘Alice’, Agatha’s long suffering sister-in-law, was in the hands of newcomer, Julie Bourner. I would have liked a bit more voice projection from Julie, nevertheless a creditable performance.

Adding to the proficient cast, Donna Williams took the dual roles of identical twins, ‘Olivia’ and ‘Oliver Truscott-Pratt’, which meant jumping through hoops backstage. Donna carried off these two characters in style. She was spot on with all her cues. I could imagine these twins being utterly spoilt brats!

Richard Williams gave a flawless characterisation of the incompetent Detective Inspector Twigg, always getting the wrong end of the stick, but also bringing out the humour of the role. This was indeed and excellent interpretation of the bumbling character. Richard was spot on with his script which was pacey throughout with wit and comedy, and the audience witnessed and appreciated some very funny scenes.  

Talented performances from Helen Thomas as ‘Eleanor’, Chair of the Committee, and Gavin Baldwin as ‘Toby the Vicar’. Obviously sporting a soft spot for the Vicar, ‘Eleanor’ became outraged at the thought of the Vicar attending a Life Drawing Class and gave a powerful I’m in Charge’ portrayal of this character. Danielle Buck demonstrated her stagecraft in the cameo role of Mandy the model, whilst a return to the stage for Simone Baldwin as Maisie, added to the experienced cast list. In her first production with Present Stage Theatre Company, I was sorry to hear that Jane Toffrey had to pull out last minute due to sickness, but Director Carole Lauren stepped into the role of Isabella.  

There were just one or two blocking issues, however, this in no way marred what was a super evening’s entertainment from this excellent Company and you must all be Congratulated.  Thank you for your invitation and not to give anything away – I picked the wrong culprit!!!

This is the opinion of the Reviewer.

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.