Hi de Hi

This evening certainly brought back memories for me as my first holiday without parents was at a Butlins Camp when in my early teens.

Tonight we were greeted by Yellowcoats and Bunting and Front of House staff wearing outfits embroidered with the Maplin Holiday Camp Logo as we entered the Lowther Pavilion, instantly creating the mood of the production. The original 1980’s T.V. series was written by Jimmy Perry and David Croft and this piece was an adaptation by Paul Carpenter and Ian Gower.

It is not easy to capture the atmosphere and nostalgia of a funny T.V. comedy on stage and Fylde Coast Players are to be congratulated in attempting this stimulatingly difficult task. They certainly succeeded, although I find it is not easy, when many people remember the original actors and inevitably comparisons are made with those playing the characters today.

Director, Paul Lomax has certainly done his research and with the wealth of experienced actors at his disposal has ensured that the audience were treated to a very enjoyable evening. Rosie Withers as Gladys  was outstanding, always in character as she breezed through the piece, ensuring that the pace never faltered and we looked forward to her every entrance.

Heather Cartmell was a delightful Peggy Ollerenshaw the chalet maid who longed to achieve her ambition as a coveted Yellowcoat. Her diction was excellent and she certainly looked the part with her “Sue Pollard” glasses and overall. I always enjoy Andy Cooke in whatever role he plays and this was no exception. As the timid camp manager he was always at the mercy of the ladies in his life. I particularly enjoyed his scenes where he was inebriated and where he coped with “the morning after”. Jeff Redfern and Glynn Moreton showed their experience as Mr Partridge and Ted Bovis. Glynn was the epitome of the seedy, semi tragic, camp host.

All on stage appeared to be enjoying the experience and this was shared by the enthusiastic audience. The live music links between scenes were an added bonus and the musicians helped  with continuity.

The set was very appropriate to the piece and together with some good sound and lighting the overall effect was just right. Congratulations to all connected with this production. A sense of Summer after a long wet Winter. Thank you for your warm welcome.

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