A classic farce, this production is a joy for playlovers. Fast, funny, fully American and the sparkling script is hilarious. The 12 actors playing 14 character roles are all superb as they work through the complicated, action-packed plot.
Angela Thorne and Brigit Forsyth are equally good as the word-perfect, sweet little old Brewster aunties. With their hobby of helping lonely old men on their way with a last glass of poisoned elderberry wine, made with fruit from the adjacent churchyard.
Mark Heenehan is very convincing trying to prove he is President Roosevelt and causes the cops to arrive when he blows his bugle during the night. Andrew Havill is constantly on the move - when he isn’t tied-up - as theatre critic Mortimer Brewster. Most of the time he is horrified and all the time he is excellent.
Huw Higginson holds the attention totally as the long lost, bad and menacing brother Jonathan. His side-kick, Sylvester McCoy, is comical as the manic plastic surgeon. Reanne Farley skilfully plays the persistent neighbour and Damian Myerscough gives a strong performance as officer O’Hara and a windbag wannabe playwright.
Michael Holt’s homely Brooklyn set is just right and director Robin Herford’s tight hold on the constant movement makes for fascinating viewing.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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