Charley’s Aunt (tour – Eastbourne, Devonshire Park Theatre)

This production takes us away from the expected, with its minimalist set and
occasionally overt playing to the audience. The open stage surrounded with
ten lampposts creates the backdrop for this excellent production. The
attention to detail in all aspects is a pleasure. For example, the matched
costumes that reflect the choreographed symmetry of action and the music
that adds to the flow and movement of the play. Probably the best example of
this is the scene change between Acts Two and Three, in which all the cast
change the set in quick time and still keep the action going.

It is difficult to single out any member of the cast for specific comment as
they all work so well together in this ensemble piece. Jonathan Parish as
Jack and Mark Smedley‘s Charley maintain their characters’ determination
against all the odds to get their girls while adding an air of elegant wry
humour. Harvey Robinson as Lord Fancourt is the only other cast member
with a single role, albeit much of the play he is in a dress as Charley’s
aunt – he is appropriately a most unconvincing woman and plays the role
without pretence leaving the audience in on the joke throughout.

The other cast members all have multiple roles and many quick changes Katherine
Senior who plays Donna Lucia and Kitty and Kate Sharp as both Ela and Amy
create their different roles to great effect with little more than a
change of hat. Lastly there is Matthew Townshend who plays Brassett the
butler, Mr Spettigue and Sir Francis Chesney. These are expertly played with
changes of tailcoats and hats; again the differences of personae shines through.

Creative Cow is a talented company with a somewhat different take on this well-known
play. It is certainly a production which is well worth seeing if you get the chance.