Improbable Fiction

Whilst familiar with Ayckbourn’s work, from television, I previously knew nothing of 'Improbable Fiction.'  I had, therefore, no idea what to expect.  Act One seemed rather serious, difficult to see where it was headed. The local Writers’ Circle meet in the living room of Arnold Hassock (played by Malcolm Lowerson).   None having actually put pen to paper,  they discuss what they intend to write. Arnold’s riveting efforts involve translating instruction manuals! Farmer Jess Bales (Jeanette Hunter) talks of historical romance; journalist Vivvi  Dickins (Liz Lake) talks crime fiction; housewife Grace Sims (Ann Wardle), whose forte is children’s fiction, produces several paintings to amusingly illustrate her proposed efforts; council worker, Clem Pepp (T T Arvind)  talks of science fiction; retired teacher Brevis Winterton (Bill Clegg) does musical adaptations but has written just half a song. Ilsa Wolby (Sue Douglas) is a shop assistant, Arnold’s housekeeper and carer for his bedridden, unseen, mother.

Act One ends with a bang.  As guests leave, Arnold’s lights dim.  Ilsa appears, in period nightdress, with triple candlestick burning to eerie effect.  Act Two is farce and melodrama, the cast each playing numerous parts, often costumes, occasionally merging into each other’s stories. Hilarity ensues as they try to solve the murder of the old lady (I think). Poor Ilsa becomes prime suspect. Arnold remains bemused throughout, as lights keep dimming and the telephone changes from modern to candlestick, to no phone at all.  He was amusingly played by Malcolm Lowerson; Jeanette Hunter, who played Jess Bales and a sort of Chorus in the second act, helping keep the narrative together amusingly; Liz Lake raised a chuckle playing Vivvi and a parapsychologist, resplendent in yellow Supergirl outfit; T T Arvind was hilarious as Clem, particularly during some business about two pairs of glasses!  Ann Wardle, a late replacement, was an amusing Grace, playing several parts.  Poor, bemused Sue Douglas’ Ilsa was totally confused.  Bill Clegg was excellent as Brevis, the doctor and chief parapsychologist, also resplendent in yellow Superman suit.  As the dust of morning clears, it may all have been Arnold’s dream or imagination.  Mother still lives!

Jim Wardle must be congratulated on directing a complicated play, myriad costume changes, split-second timing and much, quite complicated dialogue.  Very amusing, especially once the second act got under way.  Congratulations to all involved.

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