The Wizard of Oz

A thoroughly enjoyable production with the added pleasure of a real and extremely appealing Toto, a star if I ever saw one, especially when she sniffed out the sausage being cooked by Professor Marvel.

In fact the principal line-up was second to none, most notably Felicity Pringle (Dorothy), Rob Arrowsmith (Lion), David Nayler (Tinman), Oliver Faulkner (Scarecrow), Tony Edwards (Oz Guard), Jenni Boyce (Glinda) and Sheila Clapcott (Wicked Witch) – all absolutely superb.

Technically the show is a huge challenge in the relatively confined space, but it was a challenge conquered by the company

They also conquered Claire Camble-Hutchins’ intricate & highly impressive choreography. The difficult music was, I think, more of a challenge but Lesley Lock is an old hand when it comes to directing and knows how to get the best out of her cast.

This Oz was well worth the visit.

Linda Kirkmam

The last time I saw this company I said that I couldn’t wait until the next show and I was certainly not disappointed. 

Two teenagers (played faultlessly by Dan Rumsey and Asya Zuyeva) meet on the internet and, amazed by their similarities, both are called Smith, and have a father named John who drives a taxi, they plan a rendezvous.  The action of the play revolves around John, with one family in Streatham and another in Wimbledon, desperately trying to keep his two lives and children from colliding.  He is assisted by his friend and live-in lodger, Stanley.

While John is running between families, poor Stanley is left holding the fort, with hilarious consequences.

It would be difficult to pick out any of the cast in this superb show but the antics of John (Phil Vivian) and Stanley (Scott Heaton) have to be seen to be believed, their comic timing is excellent.  There is a small part played by Brian Foley of Dad, this was acting of the highest degree.

Well done to the two wives Barbara (Theresa Slater) and Mary (Rachel Mackrell) for simply keeping straight faces during all the antics.

Congratulations to Director Lisa Miller for giving us such an excellent evening’s entertainment.

Lyn Richell

Yet to be Written