Lockdown in Little Grimley/Murder in Little Grimley

I thoroughly enjoyed my evening at TADS – David Tristram never fails to give us characters who are true to life, and enable the actors to immerse themselves in the moment. 

Lockdown in Little Grimley, and Murder in Little Grimley are both amusing and sometimes poignant, but always showing the best/worst sides of the characters.

The static set worked well, David Sachon designed it well, and Andrew Naish added his inimitable artistic touch. The start of the first play is always fun, with the setting and measuring of the chairs!  The opening out of the wall for the second play was well thought out, along with the change in chairs.  It made for an overall good look, which was sensitively lit by Paul Horsler.

Costumes were good, very suitable for the actors and their characters, I particularly liked Margaret’s varied wardrobe!  Props were suited to the plays, and even the banana cake creator got a nod in the programme!

Andrew Naish played Gordon, the self-appointed leader of the Little Grimley Drama Group.  He was both slightly bumbling, but forceful when required.  Andrew’s transition to someone with things on his mind and resultant loss of temper were well-managed.

Alan Piercey gave Bernard the right vibe, with his purloining of the loo rolls and soap, then also showing his caring side with Gordon.  I enjoyed his portrayal and slightly devil-may-care attitude, it contrasted well with the other characters.

Sarah Benjamin played the put upon Joyce – her dyslexic eye and trouble learning lines precluding her from any real parts, she had some true giggle moments, which she delivered well, along with moments of despair and high drama.  Very well done.

It was good to see Susie Conder back on stageLockdown in Little Grimley/Murder in Little Grimley as Margaret, the self-styled star of the Society, in her animal print stylish clothes.  Some lovely lines with unexpected words and observations, showing Margaret’s perhaps more lowly youth, and her social climbing, which made her think she was better than she was, all encompassed in a very accomplished and assured performance, along with the delivery of some very funny lines.

Darren Adams played Sam in the second play, masquerading as a policeman to try and cut Gordon down to size after his cavalier treatment of Joyce.  Darren pitched the part just the right, totally believable, and showing his enjoyment in helping Joyce out in the subterfuge!

A thoroughly enjoyable evening, despite the extreme heat! – with really good performances. 

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