FLARE PATH

This was a superlative production on all levels – the first time Director said he didn’t have to do much as some actors were very experienced whilst the majority were actually largely not that experienced but his job was made so much easier by the way everyone threw themselves into it and individually researched and developed their characters, however the Director had the vision and knew how it needed to look and sound, and it was an extremely good experience, one which I was very happy to have my Assistant Rep complete his training with.

The set was well-constructed and dressed, it had everything it needed to give the impression of a wartime guest house.  Attention to detail was key, even to the perspectives with regard to the staircase.  I loved the view from the window, which was served by a small projector so that we got the flare path, plane lights, crashes etc, all projected onto the backdrop – very well imagined and operated by light, sound and effects man, Rik Fox.

Maureen Wallis, along with the Director, had ensured that uniforms were pristine, everyone had suitable hairstyles and looked smart and fresh – another aspect that helped to enhance this production.

Alice Regan (Patricia Graham) gave us a beautifully crafted performance, showing all the emotions of the wife of a pilot, involved with an actor, and the resolution of her relationship.  Rob Short (Flt Lt Teddy Graham) portrayed the mental anguish of a bomber pilot, and the sudden changes between grief and joy were very well-achieved.  A lovely pairing.

Andy Turner (Peter Kyle), the actor in love with Pat, also showed a gamut of emotions, eventually showing his decision to go against his feelings for Pat – another good performance, in this unlikely trio.

Sally Patterson (Mrs Oakes), the owner of the guest house gave a super performance – her disapproval of some people and approbation of others was so good, I loved what Sally did, and there were some very funny moments from her dialogue.

Diane Small (Countess Doris) in her first acting role, was convincing, whilst maintaining her rather light-hearted attitude, which created a different dimension to the play, with Adam Carter (Count Skriczevinsky) giving us the Polish officer who couldn’t speak very good English.  It was a lovely moment when he came back from a crash landing!

Jonathan Goodson (Sergeant Miller) showed his deference to his superiors, a seemingly simple lad, who just happened to be the rear gunner – probably the best thing I have seen Jonathan do.  Maddie Norman (Maudie Miller) was a good foil, very feisty and down to earth – another super pairing.

David Howell (Squadron Leader Swanson) got the epitome of the older officer, ensuring his men and their wives were looked after, whilst maintaining the integrity of his aircrew.  The part suited David with his natural air of quiet authority.

The final cast member was Sam Couch (Percy), the young bar tender, who seemed to know everything that was going on at the airbase, a nice part for Sam, very well-acted, always with a twinkle in his eye, I really enjoyed his portrayal.

An excellent evening’s entertainment, that gave us humour, grief, joy and despair.  A very well-written play that Redbourn Players brought to the stage with understanding and imagination, I was very impressed.

We were made very welcome by the Director, and met most of the cast afterwards, who were all excited and pleased that their production was so well-received.

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