Natural Causes

Denys Edwards Players are a well established theatre company of long standing, usually performing at the Library Theatre in Sheffield, but latterly with the difficulties of access, parking costs and other reasons moved to Dronfield Civic, a venue which works really well. 

Natural causes is ‘ a black comedy’ by Eric Chappell ,a well respected writer, best known for a number of television sit coms including Rising Damp, Duty Free and Only When I Laugh. The play centres round the Bryce household where suicide or assisting to get rid of his wife !! is the basis of the plot .The invitation for the man from Exodus to bring the lethal poison, and the twists and turns this results in.

As the curtains open, we see an excellent set, the country house drawing room, complete with fireplace, totally well chosen period furnishings, French doors into the garden, paintings and photos and not forgetting the plant. A central two seater settee and coffee table. My compliments go to all the society members who had created and built this. 

The play has a comparatively small cast of five who all performed to a high standard under the seasoned direction of Sue McCormick who should be delighted with the production. Clever balanced spacing, bringing out all the comedy along with excellent pace throughout.

Walter by Nathan McNicholas, the husband planning to remove his wife allowing him to continue his affair with the secretary. A huge part full of varying emotions as he argued with himself whether he should or shouldn’t assist in his wife’s suicide. 

Vincent by Michael Dempsey the man from Exodus called in to provide the lethal potion, so many quality lines, ever reminding us he left school at 14. Being questioned about the poison, well,’ I have never had any complaints ‘.

Angie by Avril Jex, the secretary. Beautifully performed whilst clearly after her man, or was it the allure of possible wealth, foreign holidays and more. Many excellent scenes with Walter as his emotions and indecisions ebbed and flowed. 

Celia by Joanne Ringrose, the totally depressed housewife, played the part wonderfully. Seeming to wish to end it all but scheming that her husband, Walter should take his life at the same time. The twists of emotions played out well even when pretending to take the poison. 

Withers by Michael Bullock, the all caring Samaritan, who really should learn to not give his name out. A great comedic part acted and performed brilliantly. . It’s a beautiful day out there !! somewhat over the top , out of his depth Samaritan, great how he professed peace and harmony until you see his other side on the phone to his wife. 

Five wonderful actors performing an excellent play, well done to you all.

I must make note of the poor Rubber plant who suffered the demise of attempted poisoning through Act 1  showing its lasting disastrous results in Act 2 .

Thank you for the invite to see Natural Causes, an excellent evening of theatre. Strong performances throughout, subtle lighting, clever pieces of music… ‘suicide is painless’ and a most welcoming FOH team.

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