Set in an idyllic village during World War II, this is an hilarious and fast-paced farce. The villagers prepare themselves for the imminent threat of a Nazi invasion, while resident spinster, Miss Skillon becomes convinced that her beloved vicar’s wife is having an affair. Add an escaped German POW, a handsome actor, the visiting Bishop of Lax, a locum priest and some meddling neighbours and the stage is set for a night of comedy!
Presenting any vintage piece can be risky, but despite dating from the 1940’s it has lost none of its appeal. That said , much of its success was in the hands of first-time director Chris Raymakers and his energetic cast of nine. From the word go it was a whirling dervish of a show, full of slapstick, misunderstandings and chaos.
Set in the vicarage home of the Rev Lionel Toop, trouble begins when parishioner Miss Skillon accuses the vicar’s wife, Penelope of hijacking her harvest festival floral display. Daniel Hands and Eleanor Marriott contrasted beautifully as the Toops – he suitably vicarish and she over-the-top. Amy Bradshaw displayed versatility as Miss Skillon both drunk and sober. Lara Colotto excelled as Ida the maid, her gift of timing rewarded by the audience. Dipesh Lakhani relished his role as Lance Corporal Clive Winton, disguised as a vicar, while Charles Hilsdon’s authoritative air and voice were perfect as The Bishop of Lax. Newcomer Phil Bryson (a real vicar) was wonderfully exasperated as chaos surrounded him. And Lewis Forsythe as the stereo-typical and amusing German, underlined the play’s wartime origins. Kelly Hamill completed the cast as Sergeant Towers, trying to make sense of it all.
Thanks Harborough Theatre for Rev-iving this play – quite appropriate with all those vicars around!
(Taken from Gordon Birch’s review in the Harborough Mail)
Photography by Peter Crowe
Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, inc. www.concordtheatricals.com