The Ladykillers

In my first official visit to Abbey Theatre it was a step back in time to a happy place with old friends. This theatre welcomes you with open arms.

The Ladykillers has been two films with notable actors and this production did them justice. Right from the start the scene is set with Mrs Wilberforce, played with great panache by Brenda Reid, in discussion with Constable Macdonald, a sympathetic but doubtful Jim Shaw. We learn that she is in the habit of misunderstanding people’s actions and calling in the police.

Enter a bunch of crocks. A clever  Professor Marcus, Mike Christie, a bumbling Major Courtney, Alan Johnston, a hyper Harry Robinson, Dan Large, a punch drunk One-Round, Richard Patterson and a sinister Louis Harvey, Steven Dunbar. Gentlemen you nailed it! The cast picture was completed by Mrs Tromleyton, Karen Oliver, as the dotty friend. A small but perfectly performed role.

The direction of James Robb was slick and snappy. The gags were well set and the pace fast. I enjoyed the way the window was used to great effect in disposing of the growing number of bodies and the set as a whole worked well. The backstage crew were efficient and invisible as all good ones are. An enjoyable evening as the audience’s reaction confirmed. Thank you everyone.

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