Lights Up After Dark

Lights Up After Dark is the adult variety show from the Lytton Players, staged every year, and for me it is always a highlight. It reminds me that amateur theatre exists to entertain and provide a good night out!

Jordan Parker was compere for the evening. I must be careful what I say, as you never know what might happen on a night like this—he reminded me of a previous review I wrote not so long ago! After meeting Jordan after the show, I want to say: please have confidence in yourself. Jordan excelled at working the audience, especially when not necessarily on script. I understand he wrote most of his material, which was strong, and he had the confidence to acknowledge my presence and take full advantage of it. No need to panic—I knew what I signed up for sitting right in front of him, and I would have been disappointed if he hadn’t seized the opportunity. Good job, Jordan. I look forward to round two next year!

The large cast (Nikki Hamilton, Di Barton, Heather Lawther, Claire Hallett, Emma Watson, Justine Mileusnic, Georgia Vary, Craig Harris, Bele Tela, Richard Petch, Ben Archer, Emma Dorrington, Rosie Lawther-Pratt, Alcie Moutrey, and Señor Nutz) performed a wide range of songs and skits. It’s impossible to mention them all, but here are some highlights:

Jenny by Flight of the Conchords was performed by Craig Harris and Georgia Vary. This funny duet was simply staged but perfectly timed—every joke landed.

Craig Harris also wrote and performed Music Lessons, which was clever, well written, and layered with meaning. It was one of those moments where the character’s words carried a different implication than what the audience imagined.

The AI Sketch was a great idea, though it’s one of those pieces that depends heavily on the audience. If the audience has no filter, I really feel for the performers!

The Magical Dick—a highlight every year—was funny, silly, and remains a staple of Lights Up.

Mike Hunt was brilliant as well. I dread to think how many of those books the Lytton Players own!

A Night at the Orchestra played perfectly into my silly sense of humour. Simple but effective.

I cannot write this review without mentioning Di Barton. She has been a member for decades and has performed many times for the Lytton Players. Quite rightly, she featured in several pieces in Act 1, and it was wonderful to see her perform. Thank you, Di, for your service to amateur theatre—you have made many people smile, and I hope you continue for as long as you can.

I always enjoy visiting the Lytton Theatre, and this show was no exception. I feel welcomed every time I attend. This is a wonderful society that truly understands what amateur theatre is about.

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