The Good Life

Rainham Theatrical Society, I totally agree with with your programme notes. ‘The Good Life’ was ahead of its time and a beloved British sitcom. Also ..yes it has stayed one of the greats of all time and you did it proud.

My guest and I were enthralled with your revolving set, the consruction was solid and there were no electrics, just a rope to revolve, on such a small stage this was truly a success for you - all managed superbly by Stage Manager Carson Holmes.

Director and Set Designer Phill Willing this was a triumph for you and your cast. You picked your cast that were all stage aware so much so they had so many excellent props (Carol Bolden) and doors to cope with, they did this with ease. I'm glad that it was your wish to direct this "The Good Life" with a profesional approach - it showed.

Your cast, all seasoned actors (I say that fondly). Matt Dallas as Tom Good - here is a actor that has comedy written all over him, just watch this man's eyes, they say it all. Perfect in this role. Tom's wife Barbara played by Claire Feekings matched him and together they were perfectly cast. Steve Barry as Jerry Leadbetter and Joanna Godman as Margot, the nextdoor neigbours, the Leadbetters, are stalwarts of the Oasthouse Theatre and what a pairing. They bounced off each other and were sufficiently posh - Joanna so posh it bordered on campness, just what Margot needed, and Steve played along with her. Supporting actors Alan Godman and Amanda Miller - what a casting. Both are actors that can take on such challenging roles, each playing 4 parts with quick costume changes and accents, a joy to watch and their grasp of comedy was uppermost. Once again, perfect casting.

This cast is one of the best I have seen in a long time, all suppoting each other even if little mishaps occurred, they coped and made it comedy. Now that’s showing how talented these six actors were. What a perfect evening your audience had (a full one I add) - you deserved your applause and you got it!!! Thank you so much for inviting my guest and me.

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