Blackadder 2

I was delighted to return to The Daneside Theatre this week which almost feels like a second home, to see Congleton Players production of Blackadder 2. Now I have to admit from the offset that I am not a massive fan of this show or this style of comedy, however I can appreciate the simplicity of it and how much of a cult following it has. Congleton Players version of this ‘play’ is based on the television series by Richard Curtis and Ben Elton. The audience were treated to four episodes of the series on stage which each one separately staged in its own right. I liked the overall concept of staging which had projections and its own title. I also really enjoyed the band which sang in between each episode, adding to the style and tone of the evening.

Directed by Howard Ball and assisted by Robin Jackson, I have to say that I was a little underwhelmed with the direction at times - there were far too many people standing in straight lines. I have to admit, this may have been purposeful in-keeping with the comedic tone. For me, the staging of this production was a little weak with both lighting and sound. The staging of lighting meant that some actors were left in too much darkness (which again, may have been purposeful due to the year this was set) and the blend and quality of the mics wasn’t great, with mics not cued etc.

What I did love and appreciate was the use of projections, which was brilliant due to the number of change of locations. I also loved the Black Adder projections between episodes. I adored the costumes, which not only helped establish character but added levels to scenes and tone. I cannot say just how good these costumes were! Each individually made for each character, complete with ruffles, codpieces and more! I even appreciated the tabards for the band of minstrels. Making any period costume is certainly no mean feat but Glynis Aldred has worked wonders here! Your hard work has certainly not gone unnoticed!

The highlight were the cast who not only used physicality and vocality to develop characterisation but to add to the humour. I really enjoyed the subtleties and nuances used to convey character.

William Vickers was superbly cast as the protagonist Blackadder. I appreciated the vast script that Will had to learn, and I felt very at ease watching him, knowing the audience were in safe hands. Will was simply brilliant in this role and was commanding throughout. I loved the style that he brought to the stage and loved his physicality. At times I lost a little dialogue at the end of sentences but on the whole, this was an excellent performance!

Blackadder is always supported by his sidekick Baldrick and Daniel Wood didn’t disappoint in this role. If ever there was a part written for Daniel, it’s this one! Dan was subtle and had some wonderful comedic moments. A great performance!

Lewis Robinson did well as Percy. I liked the weak and feeble elements he brought. Simon Hoffman as Melchett was equally entertaining and both added positively to scenes they were in. I loved Claire Morris as the Nurse who took some risks vocally which paid off and added to the comedy. Claire was very watchable on stage, and I really enjoyed the choices she made.

One of the standout performances for me was the role of Queenie, played brilliantly by Rachel Wood. Rachel was outstanding in this role. I loved the vocality, physicality and grace that she brought, and she had a wonderful sense of comedic timing and facial expressions etc which added to her scenes – a brilliant performance!

Crystal Holford was well cast as Bob/Kate – and despite her hair being too modern (I’m being very picky here) she was entertaining to watch. Miles Cook took some risks with his characters, which paid off and he helped layer scenes and add to the overall comedy. Other notable mentions were to Sarah Francis (Wise Woman) and Robin Jackson (various roles) who aided the storylines and showcased talent.

Despite this not being ‘up my street’ I really appreciated the comedy and storytelling. The couple in front of me were clearly fans and were laughing loudly in all of the right places – a sure fire way to know this production was fun and entertaining. Congleton Players do comedy and do it well. I thank them for their very kind hospitality and wish them all the very best for their upcoming 2023 productions of Blood Brothers and And Then There Are None.

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