Black Adder The Third

Adapting a popular TV series for the stage can be challenging; while TV scenes change instantly, Rotherham Rep’s well-directed production uses skilled actors, effective lighting and a well-designed set to smoothly take the audience from one scene to the next. The production featured complex storylines, including where Prince George is depicted as intellectually challenged with Blackadder doing his best to either get him married, or swindle money from him. Period-appropriate settings with furniture, props, costumes and music effectively recreated the Georgian era's atmosphere.  

 All twelve actors skilfully gave both voice and presence to these iconic roles, delivering dialogue with precise timing and flow.

With copious amounts of dialogue Shaun Mchale’s performance of Edmund Blackadder, the butler to Prince George, was excellent. He was on stage for most of the production, moving with ease from one scene to the next and delivering famous lines with impressive skill and perfect timing. Roger Hazelwood gave a perfect performance as the gormless Baldrick and also co-directed the production. Richard Wilshaw excelled in his portrayal of Prince George, with impressive body language and delivery. Even when the lights dimmed, he maintained his distinctive style of walking. 

Dean Charlton and Anthony Parsley were brilliant in their roles as “The Thespians”, Mossop and Keanrick, each delivering just the right amount of exaggerated performance to highlight the humour. All actors believe that quoting Shakespeare's "The Scottish Play" brings bad luck, so whenever Blackadder did this, with perfect timing, Mossop and Keanrick promptly performed their comedic counter-ritual. I later discovered from the programme that they also impressively played “Mad Macadder” (Charlton) and Mr Hardwood (Parsley).

Lindsay Stroughair excelled as Mrs Miggins and made several appearances, while Yvette Sayles portrayed to perfection Amy Hardwood, a potential bride for Prince George. This was due to the misconception that her father was wealthy, and all this just added more confusion to the plot. We also met Sally Cheapside with several different disguises expertly played by Debbie Evans.

There were several distinguished members of the Royalty represented, including the Duke of Wellington, noted for his military accomplishments and skilfully portrayed by Danny Hastie. King George III was played by Frank Woodward, with Stephen Hepworth giving an excellent performance as the Duke of Cheapside. These actors delivered first-rate work in their respective roles. Additionally, Lewis Davis provided a compelling characterisation of an Anarchist, introducing significant disruption to the proceedings.

It was so pleasing to see a full house, and the appalling weather didn’t put anyone off coming to the theatre. A big thank you for making us laugh so much.

Everyone involved in this production, the directors, production team, actors, and backstage staff, should take great pride in the exceptionally high standard achieved. Thank you for providing such an enjoyable performance and much laughter for us, the audience.

Thanks also for the invitation and warm welcome to an outstanding evening.

Sue Cox - Drama Rep     Region 14

NODA N.E.

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