Tom Jones

Tom Jones is an interesting and challenging production.    The director Marian Heathcote very sensibly dispensed with numerous scene changes and props, deciding that the smallish stage would work better "in areas", to quote her own programme notes.   This added to the pace and enjoyment of the production.   The one essential on stage was a bed that Tom hopped in and out of frequently!

The lead role is a demanding one requiring not only talent, but suitability as a womaniser with a larger than life personality.    Barry Harrison-Fudge carried off the role beautifully, always retaining the likeability factor that underpinned the show.   His guardian, and as it transpired, his uncle, Squire Allworthy was played with stern moral assurance by Barrie Heathcote.    Bridget Allworthy, his sister (eventually revealed to be Tom's mother) was ably played by Julie Edwards.

The machinations of Parson Thwackum (a suitably insidious Michael Richardson) and Squire Allworthy's evil and deceitful nephew Blifil (slightly underplayed by Daniel Williams) lead to Tom being banished and his escapades thereafter.

Squire Western and his well brought up daughter Sophia, Tom's ultimate love, were both excellent.    Tom's dalliance with Molly (Sophie Shickell) was wonderfully played out.   The busty and overtly sexy Molly was a delight, complete with a real Somerset accent.

The two middle aged ladies both scheming and determined to get Tom to bed them were outstanding, with both Wendy Davies(Mrs Waters) and Tricia Cooper (Mrs Fitzpatrick) relishing their roles.

Honour, a maid (Louisa Worby) and Susan (Catherine van't Riet) another servant - lusting after Tom - desperately scrubbing the floor, both played their parts with assurance.

Also deserving of praise was Captain Fitzpatrick (Chris Lyth) - a very convincing Irish accent.     Jeremy Day as the Doctor  and a manservant did well as did Sharon Welland as Betty, a maid.     Commendations also to Bill Pilcher (Lord Fellamar), Tony Money (Constable), Katrina McDonald (woman with a basket), Robert Clark (Executioner and bystander) and Felix Cuthbert(Priest and bystander).

Wardrobe by Anne Lyth and Hilary Pannell and Hair / make up by Nicki Payne added much to the realism  of the 18th century setting.

Despite three or four prompts on what was the opening night, this was a high quality production of which the talented cast and director can feel justly proud.

Finally, may I thank Ewhurst Players for the particularly warm welcome Sue and I were given by this friendly company, in particular Hilary Roberts, Marian Heathcote and Mike Fanya.

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