Laburnum Grove

The Hall Players produced this play twenty years ago and they had decided to both introduce a new audience to the piece and to remind theatre goers who were familiar with it how well the script has stood the test of time.  J.B. Priestley set the play in the 1930’s in a quiet residence in Laburnum Grove.  The curtains opened to a well designed, well constructed set with appropriate furniture and dressed in the 30’s style. I particularly noticed the embroidered tablecloth the antimacassars and the period wireless and telephone.Priestley often writes about families and their dynamics and this was evident as this production progressed.  Carol Pettinger had used all her expertise in bringing out the very best from all members of the talented cast. There were no weak links and it is encouraging to see that smaller cameo roles were well cast.

The casting of John Nickson as George Radfern as the central character was inspirational as he controlled his family members with great skill and artifice. There were very good performances from all the actors but particularly effective was the rapport between Maureen Nickson and Paul Armitt as Lucy and Bernard Baxley. They were quite happy to sponge off George enjoying handouts and accommodation.

Paul Armitt’s facial expressions and body language were fascinating as he casually helped himself to the bowl of bananas, an expensive fruit at that time. Annaka Lee as Elsie Radfern was completely immersed in her role as was Carol Buckley as Mrs Radfern. These were both well delineated characters.

Diction and projection from all was outstanding and the play flowed at just the correct pace. Costumes, hairstyles and accessories were authentic for the 1930’s.

I am a great fan of Priestley’s work and I am sure the man himself would have appreciated this excellent production. The Hall Players  must be so pleased that they have such a wealth of talent from which to choose, Congratulations on yet another first class performance. Thank you for your warm welcome to my wife and myself.

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