The Drowsy Chaperone

A rollicking good evening of fun made up of acting which encompassed pathos and slapstick, exciting choreography, excellent singing and a really florid plot. Mark Yeats as the Man in Chair is reminiscing about his favourite 1920s musical and he is the lynchpin of the piece. He takes the audience on an artistic and emotional journey as he celebrates the cast and songs in the musical and shares his own struggles. Mark is completely in control of the character and drives the whole show along with beautifully timed comedy and moving emotional honesty.

Meg Warren who is the Drowsy Chaperone of the title can command the stage with her voice and presence. The cast contribute with excellent voices and complete poise in the choreography and movement on and off stage. They share excellent chemistry, and the audience was frequently moved to laughter.

The stage has 6 entrances well disguised as furniture and appliances which enable remarkably quick scene changes and cast movements. The pace never flags and there are plenty of surprises and plot twists. The costumes, lighting and sound were beautifully presented.

This production is a treasure of community theatre and a reminder of the talent, hard work and willingness to contribute which each person who is involved brings as a gift to the audience.

Ruth Richter