Dig for Vengence

The village of Sodbury has been run efficiently and firmly by one Jennifer Jardine. Until that is, Mrs Jardine is blown sky-high in her allotment shed whilst potting up a monkey puzzle tree. Investigating the case is Detective Inspector Grace Murray and a village full of suspicious characters.

The evening started with a warm welcome from the team at C.H.A.P.S. The room was set for the murder mystery. There was a simple but effective performance area, with the audience seated on three sides. 

This experienced group brought the scenario to life with lovely character portrayals. Dymphna Payne took the lead role as DI Grace Murray. Dymphna guided us, the audience, through a series of interviews which revealed information about the different characters and their relationship with the deceased. A key role in the play and with only a few prompts, Dymphna delivered her weighty script with confidence and superb timing. 

Sue Rogers and Keith Lewis gave a convincing, warm performance of the long established, married couple, Brenda and Bernie Alnutt, the village publicans. Mo and Sid Mole played by Margaret Norwood and David Cooper, were a delightful couple that played well alongside the Alnutt’s. Lovey facial expressions from Mo. I could not help but smile!

The Rev. Simeon Knatchbull, vicar of the parish, was played by Rev. Kevin Ellis. A very good performance demonstrating fabulous voice projection. 

Geoff Skelhorn, played Edward Jardine and gave a very compelling performance of the husband of the murder victim. Geoff managed to keep the audience guessing by presenting as economical with the truth, about the couple’s relationship. While Maisie Coggins played by Eileen Burtonwood kept the audience laughing with her cheeky inuendo and funny one-liners. 

The format chosen for this murder mystery production was particularly well suited to the talents and experience of the company. Rather than relying on the conventions of a traditional theatre setting, the group demonstrated their adaptability by embracing a more informal arrangement, which allowed the audience to feel closer to the action and more involved in the unfolding drama.

Throughout the performance, every member of the cast projected their voices with clarity, ensuring that all dialogue was heard by those seated on any side of the performance area. The pacing of the play was well-managed, moving briskly enough to maintain interest while allowing the plot to develop naturally. The cast made excellent use of comic timing, with moments of humour delivered consistently and effectively, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the evening. 

Congratulations to the director Jenny Phillips, the cast and crew. A very enjoyable production that sent me, and I am sure an appreciative audience, home, smiling and reflecting on a lovely evening of amateur theatre.

Thank you C.H.A.P.S, I look forward to seeing your next production.

This views in this report are solely the opinion of the writer.

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