Theatre Reviews by Phyl Romeril

Just back from a very successful week at the Minack Theatre in Cornwall, with Labiche's An Italian Straw Hat, the Players fulfilled a further commitment as part of the 35th season of open air shows at Willow Cottage, Curtis Mill Green.

The weather was perfect and the woodland scene adapted well. The performances of the comedy were highly commendable but did seem to lose a little of the necessary momentum and effervescent content.

Individually however, the entire company gave some excellent entertainment. Elaine Elliott proved once again what a first class actress she is but now we know she can also sing.

The most lucrative portrayal of character came from David Reed; his was a perfect caricature of French farce. His brief appearance as M. Beaujolais was timed and presented exactly as it should be. Incidentally he was also Musical Director and the songs and music more than satisfied.

The most exacting task went to Alisdair Low (the bridegroom) who was chased hither and thither in his attempts to locate the illusive hat. He had not a moment to get his breath back before the next disastrous encounter.

Amanda Cummings (the bride), Bob Pamplin (the bride's father) and Bob Gray, the deaf old uncle, all played convincingly.

Michael Michael produced and directed. A final performance is planned for July 20 at Lloyd Park, Forest Road, Walthamstow, as part of the Summer Festival 1996 Play in the Park. The performance commences at 6pm.