NODA said:
Alvechurch Dramatic Society
The Importance of Being Earnest
Alvechurch Village Hall
Directors Leah Yendell & Martin Salter
26th April 2013
One hundred years after this Oscar Wilde classic was first performed the play retains popularity and a fascination. This village hall audience were provided with a well-paced production of the highest quality and all involved should feel rightly proud of a superb performance.
The opening lines were delivered by Lane (Chris Tomlin) in lugubrious and dead pan fashion, and as each cast member made their first appearance on stage the wit and brilliance of this magnificent script with all the one liners and put down comments were delivered with complete precision.
Algernon (Martin Salter, in a very well executed director and acting role) eating his way effortlessly through cucumber sandwiches and muffins, caught the style and manner of the character, as did Jack Worthing (Chris Davies) with sharp clarity and lovely facial expressions.
Lady Bracknell (Susan Resuggan) in magnificent wig, hats and a couple of stunning outfits delivered a wonderful comedic formidable performance in clear and forthright fashion with all the required snobbery the part demands. Gwendolen Fairfax (Jo Bestwick) gave a delightfully appealing poised delivery with superbly clear diction brought into sharp focus during the sparring scene with Cecily (Leah Yendell, also balancing her joint director responsibility seamlessly), the innocent 18 year old. Miss Prism (Helen Tuite), Dr Chasuble ( Adrian Perry) and Merriman ( Steve Siddle) gave excellent character performances completing this quality line up.
The style, props and furnishings in attractive and well-designed sets for all 3 acts provided authenticity which together with excellent costumes and with the right amount of elegance provided the appropriate setting for this timeless play. This was my first visit to a recently joined NODA member group and after enjoying this quality production I look forward to having the opportunity to repeat the experience.