Spotlight by Phyl Romeril for Guardian & Gazette Newspapers, October 11, 1991
Wadham Players Theatre Group - Flare Path

Love and loyalty in the squadron

Terence Rattigan's Flare Path has stood the test of time with Wadham Players' production last week emerging with flying colours. It was fresh as a daisy.

Assisted by several members of the Lansbury Players, director Michael Michael had a certain success on his hands.

For the uninitiated, this is a story of the Second World War, a tale of love, dedication and loyalty in a squadron of Bomber Command and their wives and girl-friends. They are all gathered together in a small hotel "somewhere in England".

There are many tense moments, anxiety, sadness, joy and resignation, all of which were skillfully emoted by the entire cast.

Elaine Elliott blossomed as the ex-barmaid married to a Polish count sympathetically played by Keith Cummings.

Richard Holliss' performance was as immaculate as always. He arrived on the typically English scene adding further tension and his portrayal of the rather selfish American film actor was faultless.

Christine Holliss gave one of her delightful character studies. Her hotel proprietress induced the laughter needed to balance the more dramatic moments.

Alisdair Low and Gerri Watts were caught up in the triangle of events, both interpreting their roles with feeling.

To bring us down to earth we enjoyed the back chat between John Snow and Alison Rhodes, Keith Carter, Bob Gray and Keith Dye, all members of the squadron, supported in real RAF tradition.

Peter Dunn and Peter Akins acted as off-stage BBC announcers and the atmosphere of an almost forgotten era was revived with a number of authentic and interesting touches.