The Real Inspector Hound

Firstly I would like to thank Lynda Sloane (Front of House/Box Office) and Janet Astley (Director) for such a warm welcome to Somerset Hall, Portishead, it was fantastic to see a practically full house on ‘opening night’

In true Stoppard style this is a fine example of mirroring another playwright as a starting ground for his own. ‘The Real Inspector Hound’ imitates a classic murder mystery play spoofing The Mousetrap. The play has an added dimension and exaggerated subplot following two theatre critics who become involved with those of the characters in the play who they are meant to be reviewing.

One of the lines delivered by Simon Gascoyne ‘Some of the cast seem to have given up acting altogether, apparently aghast, with every reason, sat finding themselves involved in an evening that would and indeed will make the angels weep’ does certainly not apply to this production and the eight highly competent Cast Members.

All Cast Members held first night nerves well and proceeded to deliver the majority of lines in the correct tone, manor and timing to ensure a good balance of humour, which unfortunately at times did seem to go over the heads of some in the audience.

‘Moon’ engaged well with the audience prior to the start of the production. It was great he stayed in character taking his position stage right in his ‘reserved’ critic seat. 

I am sorry if I missed this, but where was ‘Birdboot’ prior to the start of the show? I only noticed him walking down the isle as the house lights dimmed, with him joining ‘Moon’ on the stage. I think I would have liked to have seen ‘Birdboot’ positioned the other side of the stage in mirrored reserved seating with subtle but obvious interaction with ‘Moon’ prior to the house lights dimming and the show commencing or indeed one behind the other with the use of the chocolate box rustling noise from ‘Birdboot’ which could have led to him getting the attention and noticed by ‘Moon’. 

That said, this is a minor observation that could have enhanced the opening of the show but overall I did enjoy watching the rapport between both actors evolve throughout. 

I was shocked to be informed that ‘Birdboot’ had only 2 weeks to learn the role as he was called in last minute to cover the previous lead, so well done, very good job indeed !

Apart from a few prompts, both ‘Moon’ and ‘Birdboot’ executed all dialogue well, it’s just a shame that when a prompt is utilised it does lose pace to the performance, which cannot be helped especially when delivering such large chunks of dialogue. In fact I felt I needed to watch again to appreciate this more. 

I am aware this was the first night but I did think the sound balance was a little off at the start of the production, which did distort some of the opening dialogue between ‘Moon’ and ‘Birdboot’ but this was quickly rectified so well done to the sound desk for the quick action to adjust this.

Mrs Drudge' the housekeeper within the play was excellently played. Her over exaggerated facial expressions, presence and well executed comic timing was endearing to watch and a credit to the Direction of Janet who I am sure would have played a strong part in ensuring the best characterisation. 

'Simon Gascoyne'  the suspected killer on the run was at times a little off pace with the execution of dialogue and expressions which I felt led to a few ‘throw away’ moments, especially with ‘Cynthia Muldoon’ that should have perhaps been received better by the audience, If delivered slightly different. ‘Simon Gascoyne’ did warm up and pick up the pace as the production continued so maybe this was just first night nerves, or perhaps I am being a little critical? – So I apologise if that is the case.

'Felicity Cunningham' was well played, I liked the excitable tone to her character which came across well. Good stage presence, so I am persuming a seasoned pro? – I felt the same way about ‘Inspector Hound’ not because of an excitable manner, but as a seasoned pro, but I was informed after the production had finished that this was another role that was quickly changed due to the original cast member being unavailable to perform, so again, well done!

'Cynthia Muldoon', was another strong character indeed, with clear, precise dialogue most of the time. The only observation I must point out is I felt on many occasions especially when side view of the audience her hair was covering her face quite a lot, which I did find a little distracting to her overall performance.

'Magnus Muldoon' was another delightful character to watch and I particularly loved the wheelchair entrance which added good humour. Even better the second time round when he came from the opposite side of the stage, I thought this was a good touch. 

Overall I felt all eight Principals gave good, strong performances and any of my critique would more than likely account for opening night nerves.

The set was basic, but appropriate for the production. Props well utilised and again very fitting for the production.

With a play like this it is quite hard to be imaginative with the lighting plot, so I am sure you will not be offended if I say it was very basic. I did take note that enhanced spot lighting was used when ‘Moon’ and ‘Birdboot’ delivered lines, but I do not actually think this was required and would have preferred for it not to happen each time. It is a shame that the gold wall lamps behind their seats could not have been lit for further enhancement to the set and lighting distribution.

Costumes very appropriate to the production, I especially liked ‘Inspector Hound’s’ costume and make up (I loved his entrance with his flashing blue beacon)

All in all, well done to all involved with this production, I actually feel that it is a hard play to portray without confusing the audience, but I do think you managed to pull it off and I enjoyed it.

It may not be everyone’s cup of tea but one thing for sure it was 100% far from being a ‘complete ragbag’ !

P.s I really hope that you can do something about the creaking stage for future productions as this was quite a distraction for me !!

Well done and good luck with the rest of the run!

See you again soon!

Lewis

 

Disclaimer 

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the performance in question.  The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance and it is inevitable that his assessment will be affected by that knowledge. 

The NODA Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in particular, the performance.  It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed.  Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other performances and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre. 

 It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer will prove helpful in improving future productions. 

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