Show Reports for District 1  

Shows reviewed by Lyn Emmerson unless otherwise stated.  

BUTTINGTON MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

IOLANTHE

Director: Sue Percy Musical Director: John R Jones
(Reviewed by Jackie Titley and Ian Hogg on behalf of Lyn Emmerson)

Congratulations to all of you. From the moment your excellent pianist (and assistant M.D.), John Waller played the overture you had the audience's full attention. Your M.D. John R Jones must also be congratulated on his achievements in taking on this role for the first time.
The set was both simple and effective, your scenery painter did you credit, and we loved the costumes, from the ladies as flowers, including 4 younger flowers (seedlings?), to the peers in their traditional uniforms. First night nerves led to a few 'hitches' (including Strephon's trousers!) but they didn't distract from the show at all.
The Chancellor (Les Skilton) stole the show with his 'dancing' and patter songs. Strephon (Doug Skilton) and Phyllis (Linda Skilton) blended well as a couple and in their duets. Queen of the Fairies (Frances Butler) was very compelling in her gold headdress and costume and in her singing. Iolanthe was played by the show's director (Sue Percy), who tackled both roles credibly.
Lord Tololler (John Parkinson) and Lord Mountararat (Phil Watkin) and the other cameo roles and the chorus gave excellent support. Special praise must go to Private Willis (Tony Deacon) as we gather he took over the role at very short notice due to an unfortunate accident to the original Private.
Thank you for the invitation and for your hospitality during the evening.

CIVIC HALL AMATEUR PLAYERS (C.H.A.P.S)

DICK WHITTINGTON

Director/Musical Director: Janis Hopkins Choreographer: Sue Holt

CHAPS came out fighting with their production of this popular pantomime, for if the Council have their way they are looking to close Conwy Civic Hall which has been the home of local amateur and hobby groups for many years.

The scene was set by a confident Alice Robinson as Fairy of the Bells whilst King Rat thought he would have his day with a scary performance from David Jennings. Claire Roberts took the title role of the hero of the piece, Dick Whittington with ease, her singing was delightful. Alice Fitzwarren was perfectly played by Charlotte Robinson who took on this role with four days notice, her diction was faultless and she must be congratulated on fulfilling this daunting task. Margaret Norwood was most reliable as Mrs Fitzwarren whilst Captain Cockle and Mr Mussell were in the capable hands of Geoff Skelhorn and Phil Williams respectively, they never fail to please the audience. Sue Holt thoroughly enjoyed her banter with the audience as Idle Jack, she kept us on our toes throughout the performance. A glamourous characterisation of Sarah Suet, - the Cook from Nigel Cooper who the audience adore. Carl Armitage doubled up as Sam Seaweed and El Macho with many other minor roles including Laith Jowzi as Sheik Dabottal; Sultan of Morocco well cast.

Costumes were of the period and Ratlings and Chorus did all that was required. Thank you all so much once again.

CIVIC HALL AMATEUR PLAYERS (C.H.A.P.S)

CELEBRATION 30

Producer: Sue Holt

This Company presented a mix bag of entertainment to celebrate 30 years of entertainment in the area. There was something to satisfy everyone's taste in entertainment with Act 1 giving each member of the company an opportunity to demonstrate their particular talent, thus contributing to the success of the evening.

Act 1 gave us some excellent dance routines, each one perfectly executed with innovative choreography. Animated sketches and monologues were well executed and and all vocal numbers were delivered with ease.

Act 2 was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, this one Act play being the first production from CHAPS all those years ago. The Man in the Bowler Hat had an original cast member, Geoff Skelhorn, portraying the role of 'John,' the same role which he played thirty years ago. Iam sure that the production brought back many happy memories, to both Geoff and the Company, a Company which has entertained and supported Amateur Theatre in the area for many years.

Congratulations to CHAPS on your 30th Anniversary. Thank you all, I look forward to seeing Dick Whittington in December.

September 2010

COLWYN ABBEY PLAYERS

SPRING and PORT WINE

Directors: Andy Hutchings & Wendy Tout-Hughes

First broadcast as a play for radio in 1957, adapted for television in 1958 and a stage version in 1959, this Bill Naughton jewel has become part of the repertory theatre's stock in trade.

I was immediately impressed on entering the theatre by the 50's set which was cleverly designed using every available space.

The story set around the Lancashire Crompton family in Bolton is headed by the father, Rafe, superbly played by David Huxley who had obviously studied this character in depth, ruling the family with a 'soft rod of iron'. Daisy, the mother was portrayed by Claire Eaton-Hughes who showed a measure of subservience when necessary, but deviating a little from what is expected, particularly when trying to balance the household finances.

The family in general, Wilfred (James Owen) Harold (Sam Highcock) and Florence (Kathryn Hewish), all demonstrated their rebellious side when father was not around. Hilda, the youngest daughter, beautifully interpreted by Kirsty Davies is the first to kick against authority but refusing to eat her fish at teatime. This leads to a highly tensioned atmosphere A special mention for Andrew Stables playing Arthur, Florence's intended who in his own way shows he is more that just a fiance, but has some concilliation techniques. Valuable contribution from Judith Robers as Betsy Jane, the nosey neighbour - we all have one around!

This was an extremely well directed play with an excellent cast, well done to everyone concerned; you certainly deserved larger audiences. Thank you once again for your invitation.

CONWY & DISTRICT KALEIDOSCOPE THEATRE COMPANY

VARIETY SHOW 2010

Directors: Catherine McArdle & Jenna Grace

This group of forty youngsters certainly know how to get the most out of entertaining the public and the Directors and Committee, as well as the talented performers, must be justly proud of their efforts.

Variety Show 2010 was just what the title suggested and this one-nighter had all the correct ingredients. Supported by their Compere - Anna Marie Osborne, each performer knew what was expected of them and they carried out their tasks with confidence. The opening in the first half made one sit up and take note with numbers from 'Wicked' whilst later, the younger members of the group gave us a taste of their 'Super Heroes'. We were also treated to Monolgues and Sketches and a taste of Billy Elliot each one performed without hesitation or nerves.

A Michael Jackson tribute opened the second half followed by a heart-warming selection of poems from the younger members of the Company. James Bond also found his way into the show with a dedication from the Seniors. There were two solos in the second half; each one performed with passion together with a sketch entitled ' Bouncers' from the senior boys. Ho Down Throw Down and Black and White brought the whole cast together in the second half. The usual Raffle took on a new guise with more audience participation which went down a treat.

Much thought and hard work had been put into this production which was eveident in the accolade the Company received. I am only sorry I am unable to mention everyone individually, but I congratulate you all on behalf on NODA for most entertaining evening. Thank you for your invitation and I look forward to your next venture.

Congratulations and Well Done!

DEE & ALYN GILBERT & SULLIVAN SOCIETY

ANYTHING GOES

Artistic Director: Iain Ormsby-Knox Musical Director: Stephen Roberts Choreographers: Lindsay Ingleby & Rachel Catherall

I have seen Anything Goes many times but seeing The Beaumont Theatre Version was a first for me. Opening in the Mahatten Bar, Anna Jackson immediately manifested the character of Reno Sweeney, an Evangelist turned NightClub Singer from the moment the curtain went up. Anna gave a high powered performance full of energy and vitailty, seizing every opportunity to indicate her talent, and maintaining her accent throughout. Reno led the company with a dazzling 'Anything Goes' to end the first Act and again with a scintillating 'Blow Gabriel Blow' in Act 2. A truly professional performance.

Ashley Woods gave us a competent Billy Crocker, coping well in all aspects of the role. The multi-talented Michael Hetherington certainly capitalized in the role of Moonface Martin. He had the audience in the palm of his hand from his first entrance, exploiting every ounce of comedy in his task and receiving fully justified appreciation from the audience. His 'Friendship' number with Reno was memorable. Yzzy Pearce-Higham shone in the role of Erma - Moonface's dumb blonde sidekick and led the chorus of sailors in an excellent 'Buddy Beware' in Act 2.

A complete change this year for Sarra Elliott as Hope Harcourt, whose voice was just perfect for 'It's De-Lovely' and 'All Through The Night'. Lord Evelyn Oakleigh - Hope's English Fiance, was in the capable hands of Steve Riodan who portrayed the typically upper class cad to a tee. Ruth Roberts and Vaughan Hughes seem to turn their hand to any role they are cast in, this show being no exception with portrayals of Mrs Evangeline Harcourt - Hope's Mother and Elisha J Whitney the Wall Street Banker, respectively.

Minor roles were adequately covered and the chorus of sailors, angels and passengers thoroughly enjoyed performing this piece, which was evident throughout. Super dancing from Elsber School of Theatre Dance in the 'Anything Goes' number and 'Blow Gabriel Blow'. Costumes were very much of the period with a colour theme to each chorus number - brilliant. Sets and props were moved without a hitch which all culminated in a 'rollicking good' cruise experience. Thank you all so much.

LLANDUDNO MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS

CENTERARY CELEBRATION

Director: Ian Garry Musical Director: Chris Atherton Choreographers: Lara Bolland, Janet Hewish,
and Scott Edwards

Reviewed by Joan Longworth for Lyn Emmerson

This was a celebration of 100 years of Musical Theatre in Llandudno, each member of the cast being introduced individually by name and profession from all walks of life. The concert was narrated and overviewed by three female members seemingly watching the performance and reminiscing about shows, leading roles they had portrayed, and of course their 'wonderful and talented leading men'.

The Vignettes section consisted of numbers from West Side Story, Oliver, Music Man and My Fair Lady, each vignette spotlighted in turn. A selection from Fiddler on the Roof followed culminating in a rousing Supercalifragilistic from Mary Poppins. The second half reminded us of exotic places with an offering from South Pacific. Annie Get Your Gun brought in a challenge between men and womens' chorus with 'Anything You Can Do' whilst 'Hello Dolly', 'Singin in the Rain' and a host of other popular musicals were served up. Don't Rain on My Parade' from Funny Girl, 'Surrey With the Fringe on Top' and 'Oklahoma' were swiftly followed by a fabulous routine by three members of 'Steam Heat' from Pajama Game. 'Climb Every Mountain' from The Sound of Music was a real highlight of the evening with chorus backing supporting the soloist in this tear jerking number. Choreography came into its own in this show with 'If My Friends Could See Me Now' and a well disciplined ' Frug' from Sweet Charity, together with 'Nowadays' from Chicago

After Auld Lang Syne, the arrival of a magnificent lit 'cake' Happy Birthday and of course the 'There's No Business Like Show Business' the lights were dimmed and each member of the Company walked through the stage strewn with black and white balloons as one member sang ' The Party's Over'

What a superb effect with chorus, cloths, and all stage props in black and white. Company was well drilled; music and lighting were spot on with no delay between numbers. Congratulations to all involved on and off stage on a brilliant show. I cannot praise this production too highly. It was a truly memorable evening, first class entertainment that brought back many happy memories that I will never forget.

LLANDUDNO YOUTH MUSIC THEATRE

MUSICAL MADNESS & MORE

Directed & Choreographed by the Members Themselves

I always think that January is a most depressing month, particularly this year with so much snow and bad weather. Nevertheless, my spirits were raised on the last Saturday of the month with my visit to LYMTs concert. The Company wowed the audience with a mixed bag of first class entertainment consisting of solos, duets, trios and full company numbers.

The first half included Cabaret, the lovely, Could We Start Again' and 'Superstar' from J.C., a comical 'Chu-Chi Face' and 'Lollipop' from the Boys, ending with the Company's 'The Impossible Dream' The second half opened with 'We Are The Champions' and other popular numbers including a rousing ' Farmer and the Cowman' 'Timewarp' and an excellent dance routine by three youngsters, 'Maniac'. Each number was well thought out and the whole evening was truly a team effort. There were two numbers from 'The Likes of Us', 'My time' and a terrific finale with 'Another Cup of Tea' - just what we needed. May I thank you all for your contribution and I look forward to your forthcoming production of 'Billy Elliot' (part of the national Billy Elliot project) in July at Venue Cymru Arena.

LLANDUDNO YOUTH MUSIC THEATRE

BILLY ELLIOT
This production of Billy Elliot the Musical is being produced as part of Billy Youth Theatre.

Executive Director: Kathryn Jones Co Directors: Ian Wilson Moya Seaman Musical Director: Philip Jones Choreographers: Bethan Lloyd Gail Astle Rachael Seaman

Reviewed by Richard Williams for Lyn Emmerson

Billy's 'Electricity' Highlights a Mine of Talent

Inevitably this show succeeds or fails on the ability of a young actor for whom there is no hiding place throughout the whole production. He must be confident as a singer, dancer and show a range of emotions. There needs to be good contrast, as exemplified by the comic touch when he discovers his friend Michael dressing up in women's clothes, to the anger and frustration when he considers that the prejudices of his local mining community will thwart his ambitions as a dancer.

The initial concern was that Christopher Bewsher might have been perhaps a couple of years too young for the part. But this soon evaporated when we were held spellbound by his lightness of touch and confident control of the role. Nearly all the characters had to feed off him to make their roles work and he handled the responsibility brilliantly.

In setting the production 'In the Round' this adaptation by Kathryn Jones was a huge compliment to her professional skill and allowed the audience to embrace the performance by feeling closer to the action, in a way less easily achieved by a more conventional stage 'end on' to the audience. It was wonderful to see that the performances were sold out and the cast deserved the appreciation of full houses.

Mathew O'Hanlon Elms showed wonderful comic timing as Michael. Billy's friend who rejoiced in being able to overcome his disappointment at receiving the present of a football kit by then exchanging it for a Barbie Doll.

Billy's awakening to his true passion was encouraged throughout by his teacher Mrs Wilkinson. The part was skilfully played with great confidence by Jess Campbell who typified the vast majority of the cast by ably attempting and succeeding with a convincing North Eastern accent. There were also good comedy touches from Ben Tooth as George and Callum Jones as Mr Braithwaite.

Whilst I witnessed the performances of Chris Bewsher and Mathew O'Hanlon Elms, I am told Pedr Davies and Sam Harvey were every bit as assured in their portrayals of Billy and Michael respectively.

There is no doubt that this production maintained the fantastic standards set by LYMT in the past. Congratulations to everyone involved both on and off stage.

LLANGOLLEN & DISTRICT AMATEUR OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY

THE LIKES OF US

Artistic Director: Chrissie Ashworth - Musical Director: Greg Williams

The plight of hundreds of homeless, abused and neglected children was brought to life in this first piece ever to be written by Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber. The Company thoroughly researched the work culminating in another feather in the cap of this multifaceted Company. It was a joy to sit and watch the tear-jerking story unfold how Thomas Barnardo fought for children's rights to become recognised citizens and bring them out of poverty in London's East End.
John Gay was a natural choice as the Narrator, accurately setting the scenes for us. His voice put everything into perspective, being responsible for the smooth flow of the piece. John Whitfield portrayed the devout Thomas Barnardo with both austerity and pathos, demonstrating his versatility in all musical numbers.
Nia Evans gave a sympathetic performance as 'Syrie Elmslie', who supported Thomas in his plight and who he eventually married. Tracey Rawlinson was perfectly cast as the bawdy 'Rose' who led the chorus well in both Acts in a manner befitting her role. Lovely contribution from 'Johnny' and 'Jenny' played by the young Morgan Thomas and Molly Bourne respectively- I loved their duet 'Love is Here'. There were of course many interjections from minor roles but I must mention Tony Jones as the jocular Auctioneer, keeping control of the chorus in this difficult number. Jim Allen gave a wonderful cameo performance as Lord Shaftesbury; a small role nevertheless played with expertise.
The seven Barnardo Children were just perfect and sang their hearts out receiving the accolade they deserved for their efforts- well done! Much thought had been put into set construction which worked well and costumes which together gave the right atmosphere, adding to a remarkable production.
Thank you all once again - it is a real joy to visit you all in Llangollen

MELODY MAKERS

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

Producers/Directors: Caroline Ward Val Bamber Musical Director/Accompanist Joy Millar

Congratulations and very well done to Caroline Ward and Val Bamber on their first attempt at producing with this intriguing musical. I do hope that this will be the first of many successes for the two of you. A wonderful story portrayed on such a small area to work with was a real triumph.

The opening was well directed and everyone knew 'who he was and what the directors wanted them to do'. Lovely touch to open and close with Caroline Ward demonstrating her expertise with the violin on stage as the Fiddler. The individual groups, Papas, Mamas, Sons and Daughters put their mark on the Tradition number from the onset. Kevin Corcoran took on the challenge of 'Tevye' with a strict but sympathetic manner. His conversations with God were outstanding and he delivered many comic aspects of the script to the delight of the audience. He was proficient in all musical numbers and thoroughly enjoyed himself in 'To Life'. Kevin was never out of character in any section of the piece and he played the scenes with his daughters with both pathos and understanding. A superb performance. Val Bamber took the role of Golde with ease, exercising her authority with the family, and was accomplished in all vocal numbers, blending well with Tevye in 'Do You Love Me'. Full marks to Tevye's daughters, Tzeitel - Juliet Jefferies, Hodel - Ami Ward and Chava - Suzanna Blakeley who showed true professionalism particularly during the last three weeks of rehearsals when changes were made due to illness - well done. Nice contributions from the two younger daughters - Yasmin Innes and Ellie Jones as Sprintze and Bielke respectively. I enjoyed the strong performance from Mike Ward as Lazer Wolf making the most of this lucrative role, maintaining his accent throughout. David Lupton was most impressive as Motel the Tailor, delivering this wonderful number 'Wonder of Wonder' so full of joy and sincerity, yet never forgetting the nervous nature of the character he was portraying - superb. Of course there is always the Matchmaker and Carol Brown was well suited to the role of Yente. Geraint Roberts again notched up another success as Perchick the Student whilst Steven Blankley perfectly portrayed the role of the young Russian, Fyedka.

There are many minor roles in this piece, each one important to the plot and each one was well cast, but I must just mention Christine Peters as Grandma Tzeitel and Karen Roberts as Fruma-Sarah.They both gave hair-raising performances bringing alive the Dream Sequence, and together with the chorus, some fabulous make-up, gave us one of the best Dream Scenes I have ever seen. Chorus contribution outstanding even though small in number. Congratulations and many thanks once again Melody Makers - a truly memorable evening.

NEWTOWN MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

THE MUSIKALL LORNA DOONE
Director: Jill Peters Musical Director: Kat Bond

It was indeed a privilege to attend the World Premiere of The Musikall Lorna Doone written by Musical Director Kat Bond. This was a huge challenge, Many hours of painstaking work has been put into this piece and Kat must be justly proud of the finished work, which I am sure will be the choice of many companies in the future. It is refreshing to see a new work being performed and I am sure R D Blackmore who wrote the original novel, Lorna Doone which was in fact the story of John Ridd, his own story, would have been delighted with the Musical. The story of the Doones of Doone Valley who attack and kill John Ridd Senior, becomes a story of love and revenge with Lorna Doone destined to marry Carver Doone and finally marrying John Ridd Junior. Lorna is shot by jealous Carver Doone during the marriage ceremony. During a vicious fight with John Ridd, Carver Doone falls and is drowned in a bog. All is well as Lorna is nursed back to health and it is eventually a happy ever after tale.

There are many roles in this work, in fact, too many to mention individually as we see three actors portraying John Ridd from the age of eight years old up to adulthood, also other members of the Ridd family, Lizzie Ridd and Annie Ridd growing up and youngsters in the company illustrating these roles with confidence and coping well with the musical score. Young Aimee Breakwell and Hannah Wilson brilliantly handled the transition of Lorna Doone from ten to seventeen years old.

Hannah brought a true freshness to the role of Lorna, her singing was spot on and she took her performance to a higher level. Richard Jones gave us a sterling performance as John Ridd, blending well with Lorna and tackling all musical numbers with enthusiasm. Excellent characterization from Mike Clarke as Sir Ensor Doone, Head of the Clan and Andrew Bond as his Son, Councellor, shiftily creeping around the set. Ruth Hendry was well cast as Mother Ridd but would like to have seen her age a bit more whilst Janette Hawkins gave a perfect portrayal of Betty Muxworthy which the audience loved. Fine performances from Phil Evans as Captain Jeremy Stickles, King's Messenger and John Bowen as the spurned Carver Doone, both being very believable. Other cameo roles were well directed.

It was in fact The Chorus of Villagers versus The Chorus of Doones, both fullfilling their set tasks and keeping in character throughout. The set was rather sparse and could have been a little more interesting, however I did like the Ridd household set, but costumes were excellent, particularly the Doones. There were one or two prompts and missed cues the night I attended however it did not mar the performance. Thank you NMTC for a most enjoyable evenings entertainment and for your most generous hospitality at the after show reception. It has been a real privilege.

RHYL & DISTRICT MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Director/Choreographer: Jeremy Tustin Musical Director: Trish Gaskell: Assistant Director: Denise Murtha

Disney's Beauty and the Beast has attracted many amateur societies to perform this enchanting story but not many groups could attain such a first class standard of production. I was particularly impressesed by the young cast who gave all round scintillating performances.

Mikey Wooster took the role of The Beast in his stride giving a faultless performance, both aggressive and tender whilst Laura Ellis-Williams was perfectly cast as Belle, they worked brilliantly together. Ashley McAllister added another string to his bow with a conceited vainglorious portrayal of the village heartthrob, Gaston. Brilliant characterisation from all the Household Staff, Mark Gairrusso as Cogsworth - Head of the Household gave a seasoned performance. Crayg Wellbeloved, the Maitre D just 'lit up' the stage as Lumiere, never once neglecting his french accent. Anne Burgan as 'Mrs Potts', head of the kitchen, gave a confident performance delivering the title song with sentiment. Angela Griffiths indulged in the role of Madame de la Grand Bouche, the Operatic Housekeeper, whilst Stacy Allen pulled out all the stops portraying Babette, the flirtitious Maid. Jack Parry-Jones was just delightful as Chip, Mrs Potts' son. Minor roles were played to a very high standard including Barry Billinge - Maurice, (Belle's Father) Richard Davies - Lefou, (Gaston's Sidekick) and Luke Heritage - Monsieur D'Arque (Proprietor of the Asylum). I liked the Silly Girls, Amy Scott, Ami Evans and Susie Lydiate - all competing for the hand of Gaston and never getting anywhere.

Chorus was well balanced and choreography of a very high standard though slightly slow in the beginning, which was a minor detail. Beautifully costumed which made the audience sit up and take note. Congratulations to you all on your tremendous hard work and thank you once again R & D M T C for your invitation and most generous hospitality.

RUTHIN MUSICAL THEATRE

ACT YOUR AGE

Director: Mary Glaze Musical Director: Beth Attwell

One is always very interested when a new musical hits the stage and I was really looking forward to this production. Set in Celebrity Sanctuary, a debt ridden Rehab clinic, there are just two clients, the D-listed celebrity Melanie, vivaciously played by Rowena Owen and the middle aged nymphomaniac, Angela, excellently portrayed by Sioned Foulkes. The role of Valerie, the owner, was in the capable hands of Denise Murtha who I have seen on stage many times previously, and who for me held the show together throughout. Linda Cox gave us a competent portrayal of Valerie's loyal assistant, Pat. No electricity and no water prompts the arrival of the clients from the nearby Old Peoples Home ushered in by the proprietor, Mrs Hewitt played convincingly by Anna Mortimer-Harvey.

There is scope for a large cast in this piece, and Ruthin fully utilised the Company. Various characters, too many to mention, emerge following the arrival of a heavily disguised 'Mrs Smith' - Sandra Williams, which leads to mistaken identities and skullduggery. Musical numbers were adequately performed but the score tended to be rather repetetive. Unfortunately at times, the comedy aspect of the script did not filter through to the audience, due to the timing not being 'spot on' which is esssential in a farce. The authentic set consisted of three doors across the back of the stage through which there was plenty of comings and goings. Nevertheless, a real challenge for this Society and one which has certainly broadened their repetoire.

Thank you all once again.

STARLIGHT PLAYERS

MURDERED TO DEATH

Director: Myra Poyser

The Company have been presenting this comedy spoof each Tuesday to entertain the tourists who are fortunate enough to visit this beautiful part of North Wales. Set in a country mansion in the 1930's the piece typifies the Agatha Christie 'Who Done It' style. Much thought had gone into the set and designers Tony Roberts and Alan Smith must be complemented on the details.

The play was very well cast. Mary Smith in the role of Mildred, owner of the mansion, together with her niece, Dorothy played by Paula Carr who was set to inherit the estate, set the scene with an excellent pace. The entrance of Bunting the antiquated Butler was just beautifully timed and Peter Weston gave us a most creditable performance, never retracting from his character throughout. Eric Maggs demonstrated his talent in the role of bumbling Colonel Craddock whilst versatile Karen Dolan-Smith was just perfect as Margaret Craddock his starchy wife. Kate Parry injected the correct air of snobbery into the role of toffee-nosed debutante, Elizabeth Hartley-Trumpington only to revert to her 'true upbringing' later in the piece. Sebastian Vidal gave a most convincing portrayal as the ostentatious, over the top Pierre Marceau who landed to earth in Act 2. Julie Roberts was most comfortable in the role of Joan Maple the local sleuth, which she carried off with aplomb. Comical performance from Inspector Pratt, John Roberts, who took every opportunity to extract the comedy element from his script reminded me of Inspector Clousseau. He was well supported by David Hillman; the longsuffering Constable Thompkins who pandered to the Inspector's every need. I could say more but of course the culprit must not be revealed and in this instance the company quite rightly kept us guessing until the last possible moment.

The Director and Production Team must be congratulated in presenting a first class evening of entertainment, demonstrating the multifaceted talents of Starlight Players who explore all avenues of Amateur Theatre at various times of the year.

Many thanks to you all and I look forward to your Pantomime in January 2011.


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