When a theatre group works together there is no stopping it’s success, as Colyton Theatre Group proved with its latest production. This year the Group enjoyed a tremendous success with the much acclaimed Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime, directed by the very popular and successful Margaret Smith.Adapted from an Oscar Wilde short story by the late Constance Cox, Margaret, ably assisted by Enid Perry, brought together 10 outstanding actors to stage a Victorian melodramatic comedy that will be the talk of the town for some time to come!
It was a tour-de-force for Stephen Knight, as Lord Arthur, in his first encounter with the Colyton stage. Sybil Merton, his fiancee, was enchantingly played by Debbie Meakin. Cynthia Bell transformed herself into the overbearing Lady Julia, her formidable mother. Angela Parry played Lady Windermere, one of Wilde’s famous characters, with all the airs and graces one would expect of Victorian times. Elderly relatives were plentiful with great-aunt Lady Clementina played by Tish Wells, the Dean of Paddington suited the talented David Clarke, while Simon Ford was a convincing Mr Podgers.
A brilliant, straight-laced but hilarious performance of Baines the Butler came from Jeff Hutchinson, while the mad anarchist was played to perfection by Alison Stenning. Her accent and antics added to the outrageous plot. Sandra Henson was also excellent as Nellie, the maid.
Set designers Margaret Smith and Tish Wells, set constructor Terry Palmer and painter Alison Page are to be applauded for a beautiful set.
Di Bowerman, Midweek Herald
