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Bunkered

Author: Ann Platten

Information

Date
13th November 2014
Society
Bocking Theatre Club
Venue
Bocking Village Hall
Type of Production
Drama
Director
John Dearsley

Written by Lynn Brittney “Bunkered” a comedy is a play I had never reviewed before, but knowing that Lynn Brittney had many earlier works published by Samuel French, and also more recently had written some one act plays, expected an interesting plot which was the case in this play.

Set in a Decommisioned Cold War Bunker in the Naval Operations Centre, it was a really unusual plot, which with two acts did take a while to get flowing to get all the comedy out of the play.

The main four characters Peter played by John Hughes,Harry played by John Ellson,Joan played by Margaret Surrey and Mags played by Jan Peaston had mainly all of Act 1 to set the plot, joined later by the rest of the cast.

I found all the cast worked hard at this comedy, and on the first night prompts were needed which did slow the pace in Act 1 and tended to obscure some of the very funny dialogue.

Act 11 however was very funny and the pace firmed up.

Margaret and Jan as Joan and Mags made their characters very believable working alongside Peter and Harry and made the most of some very amusing situations.

John is a natural on stage and his dialogue and efforts in repairing the equipment in the bunker looked very professional.

With the entrance of Connor played by Martin Robinson and Taylor played by Penny Pickman the fun really started.

Connor, a Commando style character with his machine gun at hand,but afraid of being in confined spaces, was hilarious, and Taylor as his female trainee had to cope with restraining Connor when his actions started to get out of control,which she did so well,Penny had a good clear speaking voice.

John Page added much to the play as Bill as did June Hughes as the Commodore.

The storyline was great and I enjoyed the concept of it.

A good set, which was static throughout the play, also good lighting which enhanced some scenes in the play, and a brave choice for a small society.

 Well directed and choosen by John Dearsley.

Thank you for your hospitality and well done to you all.

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