‘Talented performers do justice to comic delight’
An hilarious script and a strong cast were the perfect combination for last week’s production at the Harborough Theatre. A Bunch of Amateurs, by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, is a vehicle for real character acting. Good casting and direction from Sue Waller ensured the main team of seven duly delivered, amid an ingenious and ever-expanding set designed by Tristan Knowles and Robin Cross.
When fading American actor Jefferson Steel lands a part as King Lear at Stratford, his elation turns to deflation when he discovers it’s the village drama society of Stratford St John. The residents are thrilled, but he doesn’t share their enthusiasm.
Paul Barrass was perfectly imposing as US star Jefferson Steel. His accent never faltered.
Howard James was wonderfully pompous as melodramatic Nigel Dewbury, who coveted the Lear role.
Tim Hands as dim Denis Dobbins was hilarious and brought wonderful comedy to the piece.
Kay Carpenter, as director Dorothy Nettle, probably had the most difficult role inasmuch as it was dead straight, but she provided the glue holding the play together.
Teresa Quigley as Lauren Bell had a similarly straight role, which highlighted the theatrical goings-on around her.
Claire McMurray was lovely as Steel’s daughter, Jessica, who eventually brought her self-obsessed father to his senses.
Lisa McLean, as simpering Mary Plunkett, gave the part everything. Her thorough comedic characterisation never waned. She was delightful.
The eight paparazzi members who chased Jefferson round the theatre added even more comedy to this excellent and well-executed play.
Gordon Birch, Harborough Mail