Vardy V Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial

Vardy V Rooney:
The Wagatha Christie Trial
Written by: Liv Hennessy
Performed by: ACT (Axbridge Community Theatre)
Directed by: Phil Saunders
Performed at: Axbridge Town Hall
Date: 28th November 2025
Noda Rep: Mike Purnell
I was very much looking forward to returning to an “ACT” production after
seeing Broken Glass earlier in the year in Bristol. I loved what was done with
the Town Hall to give a very intimate theatre feel. I was told it’s the first time
you hadn’t built up a stage and I think for this particular play it was an
excellent call. The set was such that we were obviously in a courtroom and
us, as an audience, felt very much in the gallery look down on the trial so it
felt very real. The raked seating worked very well too.
Thank you for the lovely warm welcome and program, and you chose me the
perfect seats.
The courtroom setting was particularly effective. The design captured the
authenticity of a legal environment, homing the drama in a space that felt
both formal and familiar. This choice heightened the tension of the narrative
while also allowing the audience to feel immersed in the trial like proceedings.
With this play being one set throughout, the main characters had to deliver
strong performances and they certainly did. More importantly they avoided
slipping into caricature, instead offering layered portrayals that balanced the
drama with realism. The Barristers were especially convincing, embodying
the gravitas and precision of legal professionals without exaggeration. Their
presence anchored the play and gave credibility to the unfolding story.
The inclusion of pundits Jeff and Jim provided a welcome counterbalance to
the seriousness of the courtroom scenes. Their lightness injected bursts of
energy and comedy at just the right moments, preventing the play from
becoming overly heavy. The football references woven into their commentary
were not only amusing but cleverly tied the sporting world back to the central
narrative, making the humour feel organic rather than forced.
This was a play I didn’t know much about beforehand. Although I was aware
of the trial at the time, it wasn’t something I had followed closely and,
truthfully, it might not have been a play I would have chosen for myself. That
said, I’m so grateful for your invitation, as I ended up enjoying it far more than
expected—it was a wonderful surprise.

What I enjoyed about the writing was how this play succeeded in blending

authenticity with entertainment. The courtroom set was believable,
performances gave the production weight, while Jeff and Jim‘s playful
introjection ensured the audience remained engaged and entertained. It’s a
production that manages to respect the seriousness of its subject matter
while still offering wit, charm, and accessibility. A great night out.
Costume and Props (Lesley Williams)
I’m sure costume wise this was fairly straightforward as most characters
probably had something in their wardrobe. I liked the more suited Rebekah
against Colleen’s more casual look. Both barristers and judge looked spot on
in their gowns and wigs, and costume choices for Caroline Watts felt perfect
and completely believable. Good choices too for the Pundits, Rooney and
Harpreet. Props too worked well and did their job.
Set design and Construction
The set design captured the authentic atmosphere of a courtroom, immersing
the audience in the drama with striking realism the clever choice to
incorporate a football pitch motif on the floor was inspired, seamlessly tying
the trials sporting backdrop to the legal proceedings. This symbolism worked
brilliantly, reinforcing the clash of football culture and courtroom intensity.
Great job.
Lighting and sound
The productions lighting & sound were spot-on, ensuring every moment was
clear and engaging. The stage was consistently well lit, keeping the
courtroom atmosphere sharp and focused. I did like the music choices it
perfectly complimented the drama.
Rebekah Verdy (Liz)
I felt this was a strong performance. You were well dressed, showed great
facial expressions, and used your eyes very effectively to add emotion and
tension. A talented actress who brought the role to life with style and skill.
Coleen Rooney (Sonia)
This was a great performance as Coleen Rooney capturing the essence of
the character with remarkable authenticity. Your accent felt spot on adding a
layer of realism that immediately drew the audience in. What impressed me
most was the sense that you had thought the role through from head to toe -
every gesture, every pause felt intentional yet natural. You carried yourself
with a relaxed confidence that made the portrayal both believable and
engaging. This was a performance that balanced subtlety with strength
leaving a lasting impression.

Barristers Hugh Tomlinson QC and David Sherborne (Dan /David)
Both of you guys gave performances that were not only believable but deeply
engaging. Your command of body language was particularly striking, each
movement and gesture reinforced the authority and nuance of your
arguments. You carried yourselves with natural confidence that made the
courtroom exchanges feel authentic rather than staged. Neither of you
overplayed the role, yet both conveyed the intensity of the legal battle with
clarity and conviction. Together you brought a dynamic energy to the
production making the courtroom scenes, compelling and credible.
Mrs Justice Steyn (Katie)
You looked very authentic in the role, sitting and listening through most of the
play with calm authority. When you did interject it was clear and effective,
adding weight to the courtroom scenes.
Pundits Jeff/Jim (Jude / Phil)
Both performers brought sharp wit and comic timing to your roles, capturing
the playful energy of sports commentary while keeping the courtroom drama
engaging. Your chemistry together made the Pundit segments feel lively and
authentic, adding humour and pace to the production.
Caroline Watt (Diane)
You delivered a performance that was both stylish and layered. Always
sharply dressed, you embodied Watt’s professional polish with ease,
projecting confidence and composure when the moment called for it. Yet you
also revealed the cracks beneath the surface. Relaxed and understated in
lighter exchanges but convincingly fraught and “stressy” when the pressure
mounted.
Harpreet Robertson (Christine)
I only too well know what it’s like waiting to come on after a lengthy start to a
play. Too much time to get a bit nervy. Yes you fumbled over a line, but you
stuck with it and got it out and we got it. Good on you and don’t let it put you
off future productions.
Wayne Rooney (Ryan)
Your portrayal of Wayne was steady and convincing, particularly in capturing
the familiar voice and accent. It was funny as it momentarily seem to
unsettled you when the audience laughed at your delivery. I think because
you captured him quite well it was very funny. You quickly regained
composure and maintained focus throughout the courtroom scenes ensuring
the character remained grounded in the drama.

Director (Phil Saunders)
Your ability to wear both hats—guiding the cast while delivering a memorable
performance yourself—showcased not only your creative vision but also your
stamina and commitment. You steered the production with clarity and drive,
ensuring the courtroom drama never lost momentum. The trial scenes in
particular were tightly paced and consistently engaging, with the legal
exchanges feeling sharp rather than static or overly dense. You struck a fine
balance between humour and gravity, using the Pundits to ease tension
without diminishing the seriousness of the case. All in all, it was an
impressive achievement—definitely worthy of a pat on the back.
Thank you Axbridge Community Theatre for inviting me again. It turned out to
be a wonderful evening that delighted the audience. Looking forward to the
next one.
Best Wishes
Mike

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