I’m Sorry, The Bridge Is Out. You’ll Have to Spend the Night

If the lengthy title of this musical conjures memories of B Grade horror films and rather tropey little plays, you already have the gist of this colourful little satire. Full of all your favourite stock characters from clean cut young couple, through to mad doctor, hunchbacked assistant, a vampire, werewolf, and mummy, this is a show that doesn’t take itself very seriously and is intended just to be pure fun for cast and audience alike.

Set on a two-level stage, with some clever props (Jeane Savage and Carole Dhu) and recognisable costumes (co-ordinated by Cathy Puzey), the audience are transported to an isolated home in the middle of a storm, as sweet young couple Mary-Helen Merryman (Ruthy Crewman in a very impressive adult debut) and John Wellgood (Sebastian Barry successfully tackling his first musical) find themselves stranded when (perhaps predictably) their car breaks down.

Greeted by Igor (Trick Cole successfully chewing the scenery and having a ball), we are introduced to Dr Frankenstein (an energetic Peter Bonner), his monster (an unrecognisable Jodie Bonner), and guests Count Dracula (an imposing Les Smithwick), and his beautiful wife (Lori Anders playing the seductress with style).

Other residents in the house include Joel Gal’s puppy eyed and loveable werewolf, Prince Rex Talbot, his mum - Jacky Creelman looking gorgeous and attacking the role with vigour, a moaning mummy (MMDC President Jacinta Gordon completely hidden under bandages) and Dr Nassar (a hard-working Andy Peckover). Bryan Bonner brings her beautiful deep voice to Renfield, while Tammy Peckover provides a lovely cameo as ‘The Body’. A quintet of Draculettes add colour and serve as an ensemble - lovely teamwork from Kelly Cure, Kristen Norris, Tiffany Gunn, Tess Withnell and Bindi Jordan. 

Seated cabaret style, audiences can bring their own snacks and sip refreshments from the bar as they watch the show at beautifully decorated tables.

Nicely presented fun, I’m Sorry, The Bridge Is Out. You’ll Have to Spend the Night is escapism that will brighten your day.

Kimberley Shaw