Dad's Army

It was a few months ago I heard that this prestigious Company had chosen Dad’s Army for their next production, I could hardly wait for the first night. Of course I have seen many episodes of the said piece on TV but never seen the stage play. It was evident that this prompted an influx of male actors to the Cast which was absolutely marvellous. Seeing all these local stars emulating the characters in one of the most successful comedies ever written by Jimmy Perry and David Croft.

On entering the auditorium, we were treated some nostalgic pieces of war time music which put us in the correct mood as we settled into our seats. The lights dimmed revealing the silver screen with Home Guard films and We Were Off! The set, denoting the Church Hall and Office was cleverly designed by Andrew Thomas and Dave Crawford and all props were appropriate and efficiently moved by the experienced Stage Crew and Cast.

The play consisted of four Episodes with an interval halfway through. I attended on the first night, and although the first episode, was rather slow to get off the mark, the dialogue soon gained pace throughout all the episodes. Chris Bainbridge as the formidable Captain Mainwaring, soon took charge of the whole proceedings and exercised his authority throughout the whole evening. Gavin Baldwin’s portrayal of Sergeant Wilson was excellent, trying to cajole the men into doing as they
were asked. The role of dithering Lance Corporal Jones ‘Don’t panic! Don’t panic’ was in the capable hands of Ian Wilson who, like many in the cast, proved he was no stranger to treading the boards in this venue and delivering a faultless performance. It was evident that Richard Williams had scrutinised the character of Private Frazer which he played with an excellent Scottish accent, and remarkable facial expressions throughout the performance. Going home I was convinced
‘We’re all Doomed, Doomed!’ Another feather in Richard’s cap with an inspiring characterisation.

Good to see talented Andrew Poynton on stage as Private Godfrey who gave an effortless, classic performance of the elderly volunteer. Bob Greenhalgh as the Spiv Private Walker was continually ducking and diving ‘throughout the whole play, taking every opportunity to pedal his ill-gotten wares. Martyn Wickens as Private Pike with his knitted scarf, gave us a very solid performance, never coming out of character thus giving Captain Mainwaring many opportunities to deliver his
phase ‘Stupid Boy’. Jonathan Hughes completed the team as Private Cheeseman maintaining his Welsh accent.

Keith Lewis as Chief Warden Hodges, ARP gave a commanding performance trying to outwit Captain Mainwaring to no avail. There were many minor roles Judith Williams as Mrs Gray a newcomer to Walmington on Sea, who turned the head of Capt Mainwaring. Jo Greenhalgh as the stylish Mrs Fox together with Helen Thomas, as Mrs Pike, Private Pike’s possessive mother made valuable contributions. Colin Thackray doubled up as Colonel & Vicar. Ben Trafford was well cast
as the U-Boat Captain. Other minor roles were played by Eamon Murphy and Martin Hill as Mr Yeatman, Verger, and Mr Gordon, Town Clerk respectively, all justifying their selection.

I must mention the Harmony Belles, Donna Williams, Lara Crawford and Simone Baldwin who, dressed as Land Girls covering some quick scene and costume changes with ‘Boogie Woogie’ ‘Don’t Sit Under The Apple Tree’ and ‘Sing Sing Sing’, great harmonizing here ladies and most entertaining. There were also nostalgic moments from Carole Lauren as Vera Lynn with ‘The White Cliffs of Dover’ and ‘We’ll Meet Again’, nice touch.

The evening ended on a high note with the whole Company enjoying a rousing choral version of The Floral Dance. The accolade the Company received from a full theatre was well deserved, and I have it on good authority packed houses continued for the rest of the run.

CONGRATULATIONS to all concerned in this Production in whatever capacity, and thank you all once again for your most generous hospitality.

This is the opinion of the Reviewer.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.