26th April 2025
Everybody's Talking About Jame
Whitehaven Theatre Group Trust Ltd, The Solway Hall
The Vicar of Dibley, The Second Coming
Author: Eddie Regan
Information
- Date
- 30th November 2016
- Society
- Poulton Drama
- Venue
- Poulton Little Theatre
- Type of Production
- Play
- Director
- Anthony P. Stone
In 2014 Poulton Drama produced The Vicar of Dibley to great acclaim with full houses and this has prompted them to follow it with the sequel, “The Vicar of Dibley, The Second Coming”. Several episodes from the T.V. series have been put together and adapted for the stage by Ian Gower based on the original scripts by Richard Curtis. This company has been lucky enough to have the original, versatile cast of 2014 for this production. Under the experienced Director, Anthony P. Stone the actors recreated the varied, eccentric characters. There were some very good performances from all on stage notably Cathy D’Arcy as Geraldine Granger and Garry Houghton as Owen Newitt. Both showed excellent timing and were great characterizations.
I did feel that the first half lacked a little pace and more projection was needed. Perhaps the table around which most of the action took place, should have been further down stage nearer to the capacity audience. This may have helped with projection?
All the cast worked well together and the pace gathered momentum as the play progressed. We were provided with programmes to help celebrate The “St Barnabus 650th year celebration nativity,” where the cast played out the Christmas Story. This was a lovely touch, especially as the audience was asked to join in singing “Away in a Manger”.
The second half was much more lively and diction improved as the actors eased into the spirit of Christmas with an hilarious “Nativity Play”.
Laura Cullen as Alice Horton gave a very convincing impression of giving birth on stage!!
Well researched musical links and good use of lighting helped to create just the correct atmosphere during the very slick scene changes. Appropriate costumes and props both added to the overall effect. Anthony P. Stone and all connected with this production are to be congratulated on providing an excellent show which was clearly enjoyed by the audience. Thank you for your warm welcome. I look forward to your productions in the New Year.
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