'Allo 'Allo

The T.V. Series “ Allo Allo” ran for 85 episodes and 9 series. Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft wrote the sitcom in 1982 and its popularity was outstanding. They based it on the 1970’s B.B.C. Drama “ Secret Army” and the characters’ catchphrases from the series have become very well known. A number of sitcoms have not always transferred well from screen to stage but this particular show was successful and St Ambrose Players certainly did the script justice.

We the audience, were involved from the opening and were treated to a very enjoyable evening.
The curtains opened to reveal an excellent, well-constructed and well- dressed set depicting Rene’s Café with two solid doors and stairs and two hidden panels. This received a well deserved round of applause. I was really impressed with the numerous, slick scene changes as the play progressed. I must congratulate the set designers, construction team and set painters. The back stage crew contributed to keeping the pace of the piece at just the correct level. The number of props used must have created a great deal of work for those responsible for their provision.

Costumes, make up and hair were authentic to the era and added to the visual impact of the show.
Mark Howard, Director showed all his experience as he ensured all on stage made good use of the playing area, no easy task with some of the scenes containing most of the large cast.
It is inevitable that members of the audience should compare the characters from the T.V. programme,with those on stage tonight but only occasionally was I disappointed with a few of the performances.

Paul Duckworth as Rene was outstanding. This prolific actor never disappoints. I have seen him in many differing roles over the years and have never failed to be impressed. He held the audience in his hands and we always looked forward to his next appearance. Joanne Duckworth as Edith was never out of character. I know that she has a wonderful singing voice and it is very difficult to perform a number with so many wrong notes. (Les Dawson springs to mind). Her “cabaret” number was one of the highlights of the evening.

John Hutchinson as Colonel Kurt Von Strohm and Steven Barnes as General Von Schmelling proved what a depth of talent there is in this proficientCompany. They did not have the biggest roles but played them so well.

This was another very successful production by St Ambrose Players and the capacity audience went home smiling, a sure sign that Amateur Theatre is thriving. Long may this continue!
Thank you for your warm welcome to my wife and myself
 

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