Caramba's Revenge

Caramba’s Revenge is written by William Norfolk revolving around the lives of four elderly ladies. A comedy which makes you giggle even when you know you really shouldn’t.

Liz Woolley played the role of Lottie, this character’s main role is to keep the group co-operative of ladies in order and Liz commanded this part brilliantly. With lots of facial expression and comical moments. I particularly loved it when she read from the novel that Lottie had written in a completely different character.

Angela Swift played Marge who loves cooking and hosting. Marge has the ability to focus on the normality of life whilst things were totally the opposite. Angela did an excellent job portraying her character.

Doris was played by Angela Barradell. Doris likes a drink and has been stealing money from the housekeeping to buy this. Doris is a cheeky character with a bit of fight about her and Angela played this part well, the 3 characters bounced off each other brilliantly which kept the play moving at a good pace.

Ronnie arrives later in the play, this role was played by Karen Jones. Ronnie comes looking for her relative only to find out things are not as they should be. Another strong performance and a great Australian accent throughout.

Rose is played by Gina Repton, who was invited for a meal to talk about joining the co-operative. Gina was full of life and brought a very new and different dynamic to the play. A brilliant Irish accent.

Ed Watkins as Detective Inspector Grubb investigates the murder that leads him to the house. Grubb was clear and strong and gave a believable performance. Lynn Wyn played Grace a smaller role towards the end of the play.

Directed by Lynne Chambers and assisted by Trevor Chambers, a difficult play at times due to the material to keep on point, however all the cast did a great job in moving it along with great timing and great use of the space.

This was my first visit to Shakespeare House, a lovely venue which was well suited to the play. It added to the nuance of the play and at times I felt I was part of the play itself! I felt I could have been part of the co-operative. The set was very good and took into consideration the limitations a venue of this size can bring. Some lovely time period pieces with a great bureau and old radio. Lots of props required to set the scene, well done to Lynda Wynn and James Ash. Costumes were co-ordinated well by Patricia Church, the costumes all suited the characters and a there was a cracking shirt worn by the detective!

Sound by John Woolley with some key sound effects that worked well. Lighting was by Lee Hartshorn with appropriate fades to help move the story along introducing different times of the day.

Many congratulations to The Watson Players on producing another great play. A very enjoyable evening out in a venue that was a pleasure to visit for hopefully the first of many performances.

© NODA CIO.  All rights reserved 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.