The Darling Buds of May

The Darling Buds of May
By Herbert Ernest Bates. The Therry Dramatic Society (SA) 6 to 15 November, 2014

Although author Herbert Ernest Bates wrote The Darling Buds of May in 1958, it has lost none of its charm. The Therry Dramatic Society, with Hayley Horton at the helm, have produced a delightful tale that follows the comings and goings of the loveable Larkin family, set against a backdrop of rural Kent in the 1950s. The show’s title refers to the opening buds that point to the summer season ahead and to the freshness and exuberance of youth as it turns toward adult maturity. 

Forget pomp and pretension, Pop Larkin, played superbly by Tim Williams, is rebellious in nature, providing for his family with various dalliances, but he has been remiss in paying income tax. When he and his brood return home from an expedition to buy fish and chips, they are met with an undernourished and timid tax collector named Mr Charlton (Charley); Ron Densley has succeeded in creating a multi-faceted character, his transformation, ever so subtle, is a joy to watch. Tracey Walker breathes life into Ma Larkin; a strong willed woman who is prepared to look the other way for the sake of her idyllic farm life, she is a wonderful foil for her boisterous husband and the chemistry is evident. Mariette, the eldest of six children, played by Abby Hampton, has just the right amount of naughtiness to grab the attention of the play’s civil servant and the rest of ensemble of children work well together to create the impression of a happy home life. Support roles were cast well, with Megan Dansie as Edith Pilchester and Norman Caddick as The Brigadier bringing authenticity and humour to their time on the stage.

Set designer Jamie Richards must be commended for his creativity; it provided nostalgia and charm. The tree featured in the backyard was truly a work of art. Costumes were of the period, but what transported you back in time were the catchy tunes from the 1950s that epitomised the rebuilding of a country after the war.

No real surprises here. What you have is a simple script that provides a slice of family life that is full of innocence and appeal.

Kerry Cooper

 

Images: L to R: Abby Hampton (Mariette), Jakob Maddocks (Mortgomery), Issy Darwent (Primrose), Serenna Williams (Zinnia), Isla Zokovic (Victoria) and Georgina Raftopoulos (Petunia), Jakob Maddocks (Mortgomery) and Isla Zokovic (Victoria) & Tim Williams (Pop) and Tracey Walker (Ma).

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