Little Grimley opening night delights with laughter and chaos

By Alex Roberton

The mood is set from the moment Gordon, played by Paul Southey, delivers a delightful pre-show announcement, asking the audience to switch off their phones and refrain from taking photos. Apparently, if The Boathouse Theatre could afford solicitors, it could also afford better actors. Judging by the strength of this quartet, however, there is no need.

Paul Southey is outstanding as Gordon, bringing warmth and gravitas to his role as leader of the motley crew of the Little Grimley Amateur Dramatic Society. His timing is excellent, expertly choreographing the chaos of his misfit castmates through the rehearsals of Act One and the scheming of Act Two.

Margaret, performed by Amanda Tollemache, bursts onto the stage fashionably late and full of panache. She bounces brilliantly off Gordon's schemes and challenges his leadership at every opportunity. Their constant bickering and back-and-forth exchanges provide plenty of laughs throughout the show.

Bernard, portrayed by Peter Morice, is equally impressive. Armed with sharp one-liners and several gasp-inducing moments, his physical comedy helps break up the quieter scenes and demonstrates true dedication to the role, consuming three to four bananas during the production.

Joyce's innocence provides the perfect counterbalance. While her character is gentler and more reserved than the others, this does nothing to diminish Aley Matthew's fantastic performance. Although only briefly showcased, her singing is powerful and highlights her impressive range as a performer.

In an intimate theatre such as The Boathouse, small details matter. The set construction team of Peter Scammell, Pete James, Barbara Taylor and Gareth Roberts nailed the brief, leaving no stone unturned. Every aspect of the charming set has been carefully considered.

A special mention must also go to town hall caretakers Jo Patchett and Emma Goodall, whose appearances between scenes to rearrange the set provide additional humour.

The variety of comedy on offer is one of the show's greatest strengths. Clever timing, strong chemistry, inventive use of props and well-placed callbacks all generate laughs, many of which become contagious thanks to a cast performing at the top of their game.

The costumes by Mary Demlyn also deserve praise. Throughout the fast-paced production, they help ground each scene and give the audience a clearer sense of where each moment fits within the wider performance.

An amateur dramatic society performing a pair of plays about an amateur dramatic society is no small feat. Likewise, acting about acting could easily feel forced or contrived. Every member of this cast walks that line superbly.

The side-splitting comedy, sharp performances and impressive production values are a credit to debut director Abby James supported by assistant director Bridget McNamara. Marlborough Repertory Society should be immensely proud of what it has created. I thoroughly enjoyed the production and would not hesitate to recommend it.