Jeeves at Sea

Based on the books by P. G. Wodehouse, Jeeves at Sea is a campy and funny stage adaptation of one of the adventures of Bertie Wooster, eccentric and idle British gentleman and his steadfast and clever butler Jeeves. Presented by Darlington Theatre Players, and played tongue in cheek with spit and polish, this is a lovely way to end Marloo’s year. 

Ellis Kinnear’s set design suggests the rear deck of a large yacht or motor launch, and the action settles nicely into the space. Twenties costuming by Tania Thompson and Marjorie DeCaux adds flair and emphasizes class divisions (one of the themes). Effective sound design by Chris McRae and Lighting design by Bailey Fellows, support the production.

Jack Ricjes has the lovely laid-back cockiness that is perfect for the central role of Bertie Wooster. Unfortunately, at the performance I witnessed he spoke too quickly, running words together and killing many of his laughs. In moments when he used clipped and precise pronunciation, he was excellent. Patrick Derrig’s calm unfazed demeanor was wonderful for Jeeves, and he was picture-perfect for the role.

Natalie Wiles was delightful as the fashionable and eligible Lady Stella Vanderly, in an elegant and strong performance. Her companion Miss Minerva Pilbeam was sweetly and effectively played by Therese Cruise, a bit of an audience favourite.

Dominic Depiazzi was clearly relishing playing foppish Sir Percival Everand “Crumpet” Crumpetworth, handling the farce of quick changes and mistaken identities with panache. Shivas Lindsay completed the cast as Count Otto von Dietrichstein, managing to be both Germanic authority figure and romantic softy.

This is little show is simply fun to watch. It won’t change your life, but it will brighten your evening or afternoon. Well worth a look.

Kimberley Shaw