A Chorus of Disapproval

Darlington Theatre Players’ backstage comedy, A Chorus of Disapproval, is garnering firm approval from its audiences. Alan Ayckbourn’s play is centred around the adventures of recently widowed Guy Jones, as he joins Pendon Light Operatic Society (PLOS), in the lead-up to their production of John Gay’s The Beggar’s Opera.

Guy Jackson apparently had to wait for a character with the same first name to be cast in his first leading role. Guy Jones is a role which suits him so well that you could be forgiven for thinking it was written for him. Mr Jackson convincingly embodies this unlikely sex symbol, who finds himself with unexpected challenges during the rehearsal period, both on and off the stage. Showing off a lovely light baritone, Guy Jackson appropriately underplays this catalyst role, a good guy amongst rogues.

While the story centres around Guy, the disorganised, overworked and overwrought director, Daffyd Ap Llewellyn, is given almost as much stage time. Mike Moshos is excellent as the bullying and insensitive Daffyd, and while he is an unlikely rugby player, he delivers an outstanding performance, with impressive Welsh accent.

Steph Hickey is lovely as Daffyd’s over looked wife, who becomes one of several rivals for Guy’s affection, with Kelly Blee keen competition as the overtly sensual Fay Hubbard. Another well played rivalry is between Suzy Jane Wakeling’s cynical stage manager Bridget and Jordan D’Arcy’s wayward teenage Linda, as they fight for the attention of Crispin (Kieren Elliot).

Raymond Egan was on stage after having surgery earlier that day, delivering a strong performance as Northerner Jarvis Huntley, with Taneal Thompson performing well as his wife Rebecca. Solid support from Rachel Vonk (Enid Washbrook), Benedict Chau (Ian Hubbard) and Ryan Perrin (Ted Washbrook).

Ann Cahill provides piano accompaniment, while playing Mrs Ames. Some lovely work also from the crew, who play The Beggar’s Opera crew, and stepping in as chorus, while fulfilling their backstage duties. Well done to Shelly Miller, Sage Lockyer, Chelsea Cook, Jade Gurney and Lynda Stubbs. Special mention to costumier Marjorie De Caux, who is lovely in a running gag as The Beggar’s Opera’s costume lady, is continually frustrated as Guy’s role is changed multiple times.

A promising directorial debut from Luke Miller, who is apparently more competent and organised than his on-stage counterpart. Shelly Miller’s lighting design is also strong, unlike the confused PLOS designer, well voiced by sound operator Jonathan Masterton. Like PLOS, most of the cast and crew are playing multiple roles in the production process, perhaps giving this show its warm community feel.

A Chorus of Disapprovalis a lovely winter warmer, with some great characters and some lovely theatrical humour that will appeal to anyone who has ever worked on a show.

Kimberley Shaw