See How they Run

Written in the 1940s, and set in the war, See How They Run, is a farce very much of its time, so would it entertain us 80 odd years later? A resounding YES!!I I wanted to applaud as the lights came up on a well-designed set and props (by the cast) - so period in every way, even down to the stone hot water bottles, a superlative set and just like a vicarage of the 40s.

Its residents, Penelope Toop (Joanna Godman) what a roller coaster of a part for Joanna, she had us in her hands, an actor that didn’t falter, I was overwhelmed with her performance, perfect in acting, great costume and singing badly (very difficult to do). Joanna, you amazed me, PERFECT.  Along with husband, the Reverend Lionel Toop (Steve Berry) they convinced us all, that they were real people in a bizarre situation. Steve was perfectly cast longside Joanna, their lines were delivered with precision and perfect timing and conviction, an enjoyable mix of sophistication on their parts and innocence and vulnerability on his. 

Also, in the vicarage, was their maid, Ida (Jill Balderstone) who observes, comments, and participates in the antics. Jill delivered an excellent characterisation of Ida’s role, making all her funny lines count. Ida’s West Country accent on its own was so convincing and made her part even more funny, well-done Jill.The arrival of the dashing Clive Winton (Richie Basset) his chaos was marvellous in this role, he only took on the role just a week ago, a huge part to undertake in such a short time, not looking at his script that he carried, Richie you need a medal for your performance. The Bishop of Lax, (John Sansom) brought to life with a warm-hearted and determination to find out what was happening, and his involvement in the chase scene was so hilarious with great comic effect. Joe Pritchett as an escaping German officer digused as yet another clergyman. Joe was so menacing with those eyes and voice scary. Reverend Arthur Humphrey, (Neil Balderstone) a nice role played with a naivety by Neil. Darren Hammock as Sergeant Towers looked every bit the strong army sergeant. Amanda Miller as Miss Skillon, the suitably prim and then disgustingly drunk half of the performance and the parish busy body. She really starts this mayhem off, has a flare for comedy and this performance by Amanda will remain in my thoughts for a long time, great performance by Amanda.

Farce is not easy to carry off, but the company of RaTs knew what was expected of them, and they certainly achieved it in this ‘See How They Run’. The pace, mayhem and the chorography in the chase was faultless and as the story unfolded. There were many memorable moments, especially in the second and third acts, that captured the essence of farce, clearly enjoyed by the audience. Congratulations to the Director, Andrew Manktelow and his assistant Mark Kitchener, for a very successful farce. Costume department (Clair Feekings and Joanna Godman) should be praised for the array of costumes, and for securing a lot of dog collars!  

After seventy odd years this play does still make people laugh. Well done to RaTs for bringing this exceptional play to us in Medway. Thank You..

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