The Vicar Of Dibley The Nativity

The Vicar Of Dibley, Winter – The Nativity

Written by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer this production told the story of Vicar Geraldine and her friends in Dibley.  Based on the Christmas special from the television show, Alice is pregnant, the Parish Committee wants to put on a really special show for the village with Hugo and Alice playing Mary and Joseph, set on Owens farm.

A clever and fun touring production that I saw in St Peter Hall Ingoldmells for a matinee performance. The simple staging, utilising, a sofa, a few tables, and a pair of wheeled screens were simple but effective.  The clever adaption of the script to include The Dibley WI, who gave us highlights from their latest Pantomime show was a stroke of genius.

Geraldine Granger was played by Rebecca Sylvester, a funny portrayal of Dawn French’s original. She had the facial expressions and mannerisms, down to a tee.  Alice was played by Jo Fitzwilliam, again, very witty and had great comic timing and a gentle nod to the TV show’s Alice. Hugo (Adam Harris) and David Horton (Ian Clarke) gave confident performances, and their father/son relationship was subtly portrayed.  Marino Jackson was good as Owen Newitt, he had the voice perfectly and gave a polished, confident performance.  Frank Pickle was played by Steve O’Dare, with clever comic timing and great mannerisms really brought the original character to life.

The WI Ladies delivered some really clever, witty, and charming performances. I loved the Aladdin sketch with the flying carpet and impromptu backing singers, the classic ‘If I were not a laundry girl…’ Pantomime staple, was very well executed and I loved the sand dance.  Outstanding performances from your all.

The costumes were really good, wigs and makeup likewise. Some of the scene changes were a little stilted, due to the small stage, but everyone pitched in and kept the show moving along. I commend whoever designed the set, which was having to move across the district over several days. It seemed simple to set and strike, brilliant. Lots of props and costume changes were all appropriate and enhanced the action. Lighting (Richard Hall) and Sound (Tania Brackley), were well managed.

Front of house team Sarah Eastwood, Jo Fletcher, Andy Stirrup, Nigel Walker, and David Eastwood were all very welcoming and accommodating. I’m glad you had refreshments and a raffle, a great way to help fund the production.

Overall, a fabulous afternoon’s entertainment. Well done Andrea Hall for bringing this show to the stage (or should I say several stages!) Your small but appreciative audience laughed at the comic action and sang along to White Christmas in the finale.  Thank you.

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