Blackadder 11

Blackadder is still a very popular sitcom and TV series with many famous names taking on the leading roles. Joe Gascoyne-Thompson’s clever direction has ensured that the actors, storylines and set design faithfully follow the theme and setting of the original TV series, in this case, Tudor England under the reign of Elizabeth I.    

The minimalist set worked well with the many scene changes carried out by members of the cast with speed and precision. The back projections, lighting and sound enhanced the production and made clear to us where the action was taking place. The costumes were stunning and accurately matched the characters with make-up and hairstyles to suit. The sixteen-strong and talented cast gave excellent character interpretations, diction and projection with the dialogue delivered at a good pace.  All the correct and recognisable mannerisms were there and from the hilarious opening scenes of the play we knew we were going to be treated to an evening filled with laughter.

Ross Bannister never left the stage and gave an outstanding performance as the ever-scheming Lord Edmund Blackadder. Likewise, Tommy Jones’s performance as the not-so-bright Baldrick causing mayhem at every opportunity. Joe not only directed this brilliant production but gave a first-class performance as Lord Percy complete with gestures to match his character. Charlie Gascoyne-Thompson’s performance was particularly good, and her portrayal of the lisping Queen Elizabeth was spot-on. Justin Harrison’s interpretation of Lord Melchett was also very good. No matter which role Edwina Gascoyne performs, her characterisations are always just perfect and her portrayal of the Queen’s Nursie was no exception.  

More cast members became involved as the storyline moved through three different episodes of Blackadder and each of the actors, some doubling-up on roles, gave first-rate performances.

In the first sketch, “Bells”, Siobhan Hible played Kate, then changed her name to Bob, just to add to the confusion. John Jex was Kate’s Father (loved the hairstyle and beard), with John Fereday (Dr Leech), Ana Afonso (Young Crone), Andrea Howard (The Wise Woman) and John Moran playing Lord Flashheart (woof, woof).

The second sketch, “Heads”, was another hilarious piece of acting with John Fereday as Goaler Ploppy, Jan Ibberson (Mistress Ploppy), Siobhan Hible (Lady Farrow), and John Jex (Earl Farrow).  “Potato”, the third sketch, saw Stuart Rooker as Sir Walter Raleigh, Rob Jex (Captain Redbeard Rum) and Steve Mitchell (A Wandering Minstrel).

We were not only entertained with the company’s acting skills, but also with their singing. One of the ballads was sung by Baldrick and all the company at the end of play sang the well-known song “Blackadder”.  Most of the audience were still singing this as they left the theatre.

A successful production like this takes a lot of planning and effort, not just with the direction and acting, but also the set design and construction, costumes and special effects. Tudor Players should be very proud of this amazing production of Blackadder II.

Many thanks for the invite and a wonderful evening out to the theatre making us laugh so much. The thunderous applause at the end said it all.

 

Sue Cox

N.E Drama Rep - Reg 14

 

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