The Games Afoot

The Game’s Afoot based, in some measure, on the historic figure William Gillette, a famed American actor who became synonymous with Sherlock Holmes around the turn of the last century, the play is set in his castle-like estate in Connecticut.

Chris Coleman as William Gillette gave a strong performance as the straight man in the middle of chaos who is still able to have his moments of comedy, especially when his character begins to actually think he is Sherlock Holmes. Carole Screen as Martha Gillette gave another strong performance comfortably moving back and forth from innocent motherly figure to crazy lady hoped up on drugs.

Steve Lane as Felix Geisel had the comedic highlights of the show, good timing and delivery. A consummate performance, and he knew how to work an audience. Tracey Coleman as Madge Geisel, a sort of society hostess who is most definitely in the spirit of the evening's mystery, even partaking in a very funny séance in the first act. As  always this actress give 100%, resulting in some very good moments of good theatre.

Melanie Mcleod as Aggie Wheeler, a merry and recent widow who is overwhelmed by the events in her life, gave a creditable performance, good diction and delivery. Ian Jones as Simon Bright, a charming social climber. Gave another strong performance, his presence in scenes even when he was not speaking provided a lot of insight into his character.

Helen Harries as Daria Chase, the much reviled theatre critic, a fittingly over the top haughty cat with claws who skewers everyone in the room was a joy to watch, clear diction and a strong stage presence, full credit must be given for allowing herself to be tossed around throughout the show

Trish Gould was suitably starchy and comical as Inspector Goring, who arrives late in the play and has a high time trying to solve the murder mystery. A well-controlled performance, and for me the performance of the evening,

The box set was really well constructed with well positioned entrances and the set ‘dressing’ nicely depicting the era in which this drama was played out. Lighting effects were excellent

Congratulations to Carol Coleman and Cheryl Keay who put together a strong group of actors who in turn gave the directors a play to be proud of.

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