Curtain Up

Described as a farce, this was more a play with comic moments. With a cast of five disparate females, all of whom had equal shares in this inherited, once thriving theatre, it would seem an ideal vehicle for those drama groups with a disproportionate number of the fairer sex, whose ages are immaterial. It also has the advantage of a single set, adapted throughout to mark the transformation from dilapidated theatre or village hall, into a welcoming venue.

The glossy programme contained brief CVs but it would have been helpful if each character had stated how they fitted in to the story line, without having to wait until their relationship to each other and the dead benefactor was revealed.

Chrissie Blow - the punk-haired secretary Sharon - was the driving force behind the renovation of the run down venue. Her aerobic routine was one of the highlights of the show. (Oh, those mesmerising red tights!). Tights apart, Chrissie has a natural talent and is most watchable on stage.

Angela Chapple - Pam, the rather testy daughter of Betty - had her big moment when she was persuaded to impersonate Lisa Minelli, the guest artist who was invited to appear at the opening of the refurbished theatre but who cancelled at the last minute.

Newcomer Marilyn Mittelheuser - playing the slightly upmarket second wife Jackie - made her debut on stage bearing a colourful urn containing the ashes of their benefactor (presumably so he could share in the proceedings, albeit from afar). Certainly an intriguing, though necessary addition to the plot since it ended up as a last minute raffle prize.

Dennise Farrow, who made her entrance as a the elderly, shuffling grandma Betty, was so rejuvenated by the goings on at the hall, that during the course of the play she was transformed into
a sprightly, strong-voiced, middle aged member of the group. However, it was Jenny Bond, standing in at the last moment for an indisposed Teresa Woolven, who was the real star of the show. She played Theresa, the daughter of Pam and the granddaughter of Betty. Jenny has a natural stage presence and within a few minutes one was unaware of her reliance on the script. Well done!

The second act, with its sparkling gold draperies was a welcome relief from the austerity of the first half of the show with its numerous scenes. One was now aware that things were at last about to
improve, And improve they did, despite the non-appearance of the much vaunted celebrity guest.

Which brought us to the highlight of the show, which was of course, the finale when all five emerged in male attire complete with top hats, tails and batons to give the audience a brief dance routine to prove that dedication can overcome even the worst scenarios.

First performed at Whitwell Village Hall with small audiences, it was then transferred to Niton Village Hall for the two final performances where the set had to be adapted for the mini stage. However, mini stage not Withstanding, it was Niton that drew the crowds and where the show was very much appreciated by the local community.

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