Pass the Butler

Oh My ……what a lovely little theatre the Green Room is! It was like walking into someone’s front room (that’s what we used to call the lounge) way back in the 70s when this play is set. Very cozy, and what a set to match, designed by Stuart Yeatman one felt at home, along with the period props put together by Roz Baglow, I thought I was at home (really) ha ha! Praise goes out to these two for getting it so right, with nice sound and lighting by Alan Hardy and Stuart Yeatman. All of you gave us the feeling we were in the house of Sir Robert and Lady Charles complete with a very realistic Life Support Machine, keeping someone alive. (but who will switch it off)? This piece of equipment was an important focal point on stage and was used during the play, to great effect.

Pass the Butler by Eric Idle was written in the 70s and it did have a West End run in the 80s.. It’s a comedy with a clever twist at the end, with good humour throughout.  Pass the Butler was written of uncertainty for many people, the script still has some relevance today with class, and ongoing power (electric) problems. It certainly has elements of farce, outrageous situations and yet some serious aspects also.

Director Alan Hardy had ensured that the pace was important, and it certainly had that. There were some good performances, and I particularly enjoyed Felix Cuthbert as Hugo. This actor smiles with his eyes, and he portrayed Hugo exceptionally well. His supposedly twin sister Annabelle by Mignonne Cox was teamed well with him. Butler Simon Coppen, Gardner who revelled in a well interpreted role, showing comic timing. As did Andrew Mayne as Harris the Detective, who attempted to unravel the death and mysterious truth about Sir Robert. Alison Colville’s played Lady Charles with poise and grace. Mike Cottrell, the supposedly gay one, played Nigel at the right level not going overly gay - just right Mike. Louise Blewett as Kitty gave us a dotty Nanna of the twins and revealed all about the twins at the end, nice characterisation Louise. Slater by Steve Saywood must wait to last to finish off the plot. Geoff Thorn was duly posh as Ro.

Costumes reflected the period and class, and props were well researched.

Alan Hardy you directed this play with comedy at the forefront and it certainly paid off. You choose a super cast and they did you proud, as I’m sure you know.Thank you DDOS for making me so welcome. I hope to visit you again sometime.

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