Fish Out of Water

This play is billed as a comedy by Derek Benfield and fits squarely into the genre of many comedies from the 1960s. It explores the popular concept of Brits abroad when the holiday package industry was in its infancy.

The action is set in an Italian hotel where the holiday makers are enjoying a quiet, rather genteel break when their peace is shattered by the arrival of Agatha and her sister Fiona. Agatha is a self-opinionated bossy creature determined to have a good time and proceeds to organise everone else to do exactly a as she says, In contrast Fiona is the antithesis - very nervous and self-effacing. The two roles, it seemed to me, could have been written for the two great comedy actors Peggy Mount and Pat Coombes. In Under the Towers' production these roles were very well portrayed by Di Wyman (Agatha) and Rosann Wood (Fiona). Tricia Nichols has gathered a strong cast who all managed to maintain their respective characters  throughout which resulted in a well rounded performance.

Time and thought had obviously been put into the simple set and costumes and the lighting  was fine. I felt that a lot of hard work had been put into this production which was shown in the really good pace that was evident throughout.

I am always interested to see plays which are new to me and this was one such. I enjoyed the play very much and, evidenced by the laughter throughout the evening, I think the audience was well entertained too. Well done to everyone involved and thank you for the warm welcome my friend and I received.

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