THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

An onscreen trip through the years from D Day landings in 1944 through news events to 1994, set the scene for this play in a retirement home, Sunnyside. The Seven World War II veterans, all from different backgrounds were all ‘superheroes’ and each character was portrayed by an experienced cast member.

The set had a wealth of nostalgic items, typical of the period, and this gave the correct feel to the piece. Well done stage crew and props.
The ‘Magnificent Seven’ were all well cast. Superb contribution from Chris Bainbridge as the dejected, unfriendly Bill Kelly, except when visited by his relative Annie, sympathetically played by Lara Crawford. Carole Lauren gave us a believable performance as veteran Betty Mills, who worked on Diversionary Operations and was an avid knitter. Carole certainly didn’t drop any stitches portraying her character. Lorna Hughes was perfectly cast as the tight lipped Bletchley Park worker, Flo Cooper, giving nothing away, whilst Gavin Baldwin, as Ron Nichols, had an air of ostentatiousness in his performance, proving his theatrical prowess whilst in Colditz. Ryan Davies as Sid Chapman former forger and Colditz inmate, had a difficult role in this piece, dropping off to sleep most of the time just interjecting with comical remarks. Ryan came up with the goods every time, as did Andy Leavers as Reg Stryde, ducking and diving just as he did when storming the Normandy Beaches on his motorcycle on D Day. Great contribution from Ray Hughes, as former pilot Brian Eddowes, confined to a wheelchair and tinkering with his beloved model aeroplanes throughout. Enthusiastic and committed performance from Richard Williams as Mr Maybrick, Manager of the Nursing Home, trying to please everyone with his awkward and over the top manner. Judith Williams as Nurse Abaline, brought out both the caring features of her role, together with the sorrowful side later in the play.  Commanding and scary characterisation from Karen Shepherd as Nurse Brown, one could see the cast cower in their seats as she demanded to know ‘who was the guilty culprit?’  Well done young Sam Baldwin as Annie’s son, great to see you treading the boards, and may this be the first of many stage appearances. Andrew Poynton and Gavin Baldwin were proficient Voice Overs as Cyril’s Letter and A Well Known Broadcaster, together with Jonathon Hughes as Soldier.
The time change with scenes relating to different characters, could possibly have been done with fade rather than tabs each time, having said that, this did not impede on the story or the performances. Loved the choreographed snippet!!   

This play was well directed by David Crawford who is so experienced in stage craft. He brought out both the comedy and drama of the piece which culminated in an excellent production from the Company, very well received by the audience. Sorry the venue wasn’t full, those who missed it, missed a real treat. Thanks folks!!

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