The Vicar of Dibley

It is always difficult when performing a play that has previously been a very well known, well liked television program. One has certain pictures of characters already and it can be hard for actors to then bring these characters to life again on stage - not so for S.H.A.D.E.S production of The Vicar of Dibley. All the cast must be congratulated on their efforts , from Kelly Parker’s (Geraldine Grainger) facial contortions, Tony Cenci’s ( David Horton) sideways glances and looks of complete incredulity, Andrew Kirk’s ( Frank Pickle) pedantic ways, Nick Lowe’s (Jim Trott) wedding speech stutters , Tony Mooney’s (Simon Horton) lothario behaviour and Martin Taylor’s (Owen Newitt) strong, eager, very enthusiastic characterisation. I must give special to mention to Amy Gilmore (Alice Tinker) and Nathan Simpson (Hugo Horton) , their chemistry and character immersion was complete and very believable for me, every gesture, shy glance, giggle and foot rock were perfectly timed.

The cast worked well on a three way stage, the set was full without being cluttered and overcrowded and the performing space was well used. Personally I wouldn’t have cleared the actors off each section each time as some of the entrances and exits  were time consuming and clumsy - this however is only my opinion. There were some glitches and gremlins in and amongst but it was opening night and the general audience were more than happy. I must add that some members of the audience were enjoying themselves that much that they were heckling David Horton when he was being particularly mean to Alice Tinker, well done Tony Cenci for carrying on and not breaking character. I must also add that using the audience as the wedding congregation was a very enjoyable idea and even I got covered in confetti by another enthusiastic guest.

I commend the cast on their vocal projection and diction - no radio mics yet everyone could hear every word perfectly.

Thank you S.H.A.D.E.S for the hospitality shown towards myself and my guest, I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

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