Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em

This is the play based on Raymond Allan’s TV sitcom set in the ‘70s that became an enormous success. Certainly, a challenge - both physically, with non-stop fast-paced script, a complex set with numerous effects and of course competing with Michael Crawford’s memorable Frank Spencer, Keith Miller was prepared to take on the mantle as Director. So, with a terrific team effort you succeeded in producing a wonderfully funny production.

It is usual to design and build a set that doesn’t fall down but this was created for Frank’s DIY efforts to fall down, or come off in your hand, lights that flickered, an oven to blow up bellowing smoke, even flying feathers, and water leaks, pictures falling and all working on cue.  The living room looked quite perfect on opening, by the end it was in chaos and all had to be back together again for the evening performance. I hope the bricks were numbered!! To Trevor Lewing and his team congratulations on the build. Keith created the special effects operated by SM Bill Pocock and others. Jenny Turner provided the numerous props to complete the Spencer household. On the sound board was Ron Simpson with John Buckle with Lighting – both slick and effective.

Frank in his trademark black beret and raincoat is not presently employed – again - and is looking to perfect his magic act. On receiving a letter he’s preparing to be interviewed for a TV show also he is about to prepare dinner and entertain various guests. Needless to say, it’s disastrous. Hopefully, Tom Miller didn’t sustain too many bruises getting into so many small scrapes. A huge part both in script – full of malapropisms, physical action, with quick changes especially using the understairs cupboard, dragging the poor film operator across the stage, moving furniture around including a Wendy House which was built for a chicken called Mrs Limberg, and all manner of mishaps. Conversations through the open serving hatch when trouser less with his perfected face pouts went down well, as were his thinking pauses when confused. A well-timed, action-packed performance.

Long suffering Betty Spencer now expecting but hasn’t yet told Frank is taking advice from Irish priest Father O’Hara and again causes confusion in trying to do so, ‘til almost to the end when eventually he gets the good news, with very funny reactions. Hayley did an excellent job in this supporting, sympathetic role. The dinner guests were Barabara Fisher, Bettsy’s Mum who brings along her Scots, in finance manfriend Mr Worthington - Frank needs a loan to improve his act, but of course sadly has no collateral. Ita Wise played this amusing role – her character taking to the homemade Prune Wine which eventually renders her unconscious and required her to be put to bed. Bez Cuss was the totally confused Mr Worthington but then he totally confused me by appearing as the flamboyant TV presenter Mr Luscombe – the wig really fooled me with a complete change of accent. Charlotte Eastes was versatile too as she first appeared setting up tripod as a serious Camera Operator complete with her clipboard ready for Frank's interview and then as a well-costumed Police Constable, although suspicious that a policewoman would carry a black patent handbag! Of course, there is a twist to the story as well as a set up – the magic trick that went wrong earlier for Frank when making an expensive watch to disappear and reappear – which it didn’t. He still had it in his magic bag, but it did solve the mystery of the missing money. Nice cameo part for Richard Bazczak keeping up his Irish brogue as the priest, who enjoyed a cuppa and a free meal who is also trying hard to raise funds to replace the missing money.

Margie Pocock arranged the wardrobe, which was certainly colourful for the ladies. A nice touch with the pair of matching knitted tank tops. Mr Luscombe’s flashy jacket and wig and of course Frank's signature outfit - perfect. I would just like to make an observation: this play was set in the ‘70’s so Betty’s frock should have had long sleeves as tattoos were not then in fashion. Also, as a character Betty would have worn a wedding ring, which was noticeable sitting in the second row but probably not from seating further back. 

This mighty challenge paid off admirably and I thank you again for such effort put in to entertain us once again to a high standard, and as always, your hospitality.

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.