THE GOOD LIFE

I was delighted to attend CADS production of The Good Life, my first show report since they joined NODA. 

We were made very welcome, and enjoyed the production. 

The play was based on the iconic TV sit com, fondly remembered by most of the audience, but I was not overfond of the script, which is often the case with trying to keep the feel of such a well-known show within a theatre setting, it seemed a little laboured in parts, although the cast kept a good pace up throughout, giving us good portrayals and plenty of laughs. 

The scenery was excellent, multi-purpose to keep scene changes to the minimum, it all worked well, and gave the characters the room to move around.  Set decoration and attention to detail was good.  Lighting was effective, and enhanced the feel of the set. 

I liked the costuming, everything seemed to suit the wearer.

I thought the incidental music was not intrusive and fitted in well with the various scenes.

The fact that the cast got the essence of the characters without direct impersonation was good, very well done to everyone.

Paul Frohnsdorff-Harris (Tom Good) showed us the slightly indecisive but anxious man, who wanted to make his life better on all fronts, swapping a well-paid job for self-sufficiency, with Harriet Waller (Barbara Good) also thinking along the same lines and really buying into the new way of living.  A good partnership, the slightly withdrawn Tom and the more lively Barbara, nicely done.

Louise Treleaven (Margo Leadbetter) got the essence of the self-important lady, who thinks she is better than others, with Barry Pain (Jerry Leadbetter) as her long-suffering husband, doing her bidding.  Again they interacted well with each other, and communicated their attitudes towards Tom and Barbara nicely.

Alan Purton (Sir) gave us a well-studied pompous boss, with Jan Bath (Felicity) as his charming wife, they both portrayed the opposite ends of the spectrum well.  Alan also played the totally contrasting character of Harry, who laced the poppy seed cake with weed!  A lovely moment, Alan does these character roles well.

Anastasia Stanislavska (Margaret & Mary) gave convincing portrayals as the secretary and the Dr’s receptionist.

Dave Hillman (Doctor), a small but important part, was commanding, well done.

The cast was completed by Wendy Bywaters (Milkwoman & Policewoman) – a shame both were so close together, but Wendy gave them both the affronted and stern portrayal needed.

I liked the fact that we could hear every word, projection was excellent throughout.  Well done, we’re looking forward to your next production!

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