The Good Life

Congleton Players were back on stage with their production of ‘The Good Life’, based on the original series by John Esmonde and Bob Larbey, adapted by Jeremy Sans, and directed by Rachel Wood. From speaking to Rachel, this was a clear passion project for her and this could be seen in the production. Rachel had a clear vision that was interpreted well by the company. Recreating the Daneside as a BBC studio and inviting the audience to become the audience of a live recording of an episode was a unique idea and worked well. The video vignettes were a great way to show the passage of time and to show the various animals that became part of the Good family, which were all filmed on location at Glebe Farm. The set looked good, with the Good’s kitchen located stage left and the Leadbetter’s living room located stage right. There was a strategic flat that could be moved to cover one of the rooms depending on which house we are in. This was a clever way to do this. The scene changes were a performance in themselves, with the crew completing them in view of the audience, complete in BBC t-shirts. This helped convey Rachel’s vision and worked for this production. The direction was generally good. There were clearly defined characters, who interacted well with each other. There were moments where the pace of the production slowed, such as when the screen was being lowered and raised. The party scene lacked the energy that was needed, which was a shame. The costumes were good, and helped invoke the social standings of the characters. The various costumes of Margo were a delight, as were the simplicity of Tom and Barbara’s costumes – wellies included!

Technical aspects were well integrated into the production. The sound was good throughout, as was the lighting design. The pyrotechnics worked effectively. The videos were a lot of fun and filmed well, and allowed to show the passage of time. The opening title sequence was recreated by Simon Matthews, and was a great way to open the production.

Chris Brady played Tom Good. Chris gave a solid performance, showing his anguish at his job and deciding to pursue his new way of living. The relationships created were believable, especially the friendship between Tom and Jerry.

Opposite Chris was Emily Bourne as Barbara Good. Emily was well matched with Chris, and equally gave a solid performance. Their relationship was believable, and Emily gave a warm and sincere performance.

Playing Margo Leadbetter was Claire Bentley. This was a very good performance from Claire as the social climbing neighbour. Claire had great interactions with the rest of the cast, and delivered the comedy well.

Jerry Leadbetter was played by Robin Jackson. This was a very good supporting performance from Robin, creating a believable relationship with Claire, as the hen pecked husband.

Paul Berridge played Andrew Ferguson (Sir). Paul delivered his lines with authority, and the running gag of not knowing Tom’s name was played with humour, which the audience enjoyed.

Michelle Hiley-Parr played Felicity Ferguson. This was a delightful cameo performance from Michelle, adding to the chaos of the dinner party scene with humour.

Daniel Wood (Frank the Policeman), Matt Butler (Dr Joe), Dave McCaddon (Harry the Pigman), Claire Morris (Milkwoman), Angie Wedgbury (Margaret from JMM), Claire Copestick-Brown (Mary), Jack McCaddon (Floor Manager/JJM Olly/Vandal), Mark Bailey (JMM Brian/Vandal), and Andrew ‘Sam’ Salmon (JJM Barney/Vandal) all contributed well throughout the production appearing in different episodes. They added to the humour of the production and helped move the story along.

There were some lovely cameo appearances through the filmed sections, including Gilly Thompson’s wonderfully bonkers Fanny Craddock, ably supported by Holly Froggatt as Sarah, Fanny’s put upon assistant. All added greatly to the production and created the community feel that Rachel wanted for this production.

Overall, this was a good production. There was a clear vision led by the director, good performances, and a great use of video integrated into the production.

A big thank you to everyone at Congleton Players for their kind invite and hospitality.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.