The Herringbone Saga

The Herringbone Saga is a locally written play and this production is a world premiere of the show as a full-length piece — directed by the author Bob Charteris.

The script began as one-act-play "At Home With the Herringbones" which was well received at DramaFest in 2014, winning a People's Choice Award. This play now forms the first act of the full length play. The second act (which could also be performed as the one Act play "The Curse of the Herringbones") is part sequel, part prequel and part sister production to the original play.

Both acts are centred around Lord and Lady Herringbone, and their family retainer butler Wick. Paul Anderson tackles the stately role of Lord Alfred Herringbone with gusto. Marsha Holt is a classy and very believable Penelope, Lady Herringbone and looks every bit a modern lady of the manor, with gorgeous costuming. Geoff Rumsey is delightful and an audience favourite as the cheeky, but is many senses 'perfect' butler, Wick.

Act One supporting cast, daughter Caroline, and Alyce, ostensibly a TV researcher are played with good teamwork by Rachel Vonk and Natasha Smith.

Supporting actors in the second half include Natasha Smith again, who expertly crafts the premise, Paul Reed and Les Marshall, who play a succession of Herringbone and Wick ancestors and Charlotte Weber who brings a flurry of energy to TV 'Expert' Justine Truelove.

The audience warmed to this gentle tale, although I think I'd prefer these played as separate pieces — there is a little too much exposition for a full length play and much of the action happens offstage. There are some lovely touches - I am sure that my editor would appreciate the grammar pedantry exhibited by Lord Herringbone - an excellent;lent example to writers and speakers.

Lovely to see a new locally created play that provided a few warm laughs on a cold evening.

Kimberley Shaw