Humble Boy

This award winning comedy by Charlotte Jones is not a play to be undertaken lightly. Though billed as a comedy, and it has some very funny moments, it also takes an in-depth look at the relationship between a widowed mother and her son. For most of the play this is a very unhappy relationship with hurt and misunderstanding on both sides. Karen Kirkup is excellent as Flora Humble, ex model, widow of a man whose life work was the scientific understanding of bees, seeking recognition and some excitement in her life. This might be provided by George Pye, a robust interpretation by Chris Thompson showing his ability to move from dashing suitor, through various drunken mishaps to angry father, with agility. Amanda Gill provides a very natural and believable Rosie Pye whose previous affair with Flora's son has left her as a single parent. The real problem is Felix Humble, brilliant young scientist, convinced that he can make a startling scientific breakthrough but who has little grasp of personal relationships and is unable to cope with his father's death. Garry Wilkinson makes a great success of this part both emotionally and in coping with the complicated script littered with long words in long speeches!  Jane Fellows as Mercy, Flora's long suffering friend and John Emms as the gardener both make very suitable contributions to this tale of complex relationships. The very small stage, although making the garden setting more difficult, actually intensified the atmosphere.

Very well done to everyone and particularly to Heather Boulby for her first as a Director.  

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