ALL IN GOOD TIME 
Phoenix Theatre Company
St Philips Parochial Hall, Bridgeman Street, Bolton
Until Saturday

THE essence of comedy is good timing and Clive McCoy’s presentation of this classic heart-warming comedy provides that in abundance.

This version of Bill Naughton’s gritty northern play, set in Bolton, is crammed with beautifully timed one–liners complemented by some facial expressions that eek every comic moment out of this sparkling script.

Alongside directing this talented cast, McCoy also tackles the role of Ezra Fitton, the bullish yet soft-hearted head of the Fitton household, and achieves both with aplomb.

He is suitably supported by his cast, notably Christine Morton as his wife Lucy — a wonderful portrayal as a world weary wife — Ben Latham as his son Arthur — a measured performance conveying the awkwardness of a young man born into the wrong social setting — and Carolyn Haslam as the acerbic mother-in-law Liz Piper.

Strong support also comes from John Nolan, Gareth Mabon, Keith Thompson, Joy Plowes, Phil Ward and Dominic Latham, and Tanya Hanson gives a quite assertive Violet who challenges the traditional interpretation of a submissive 1960s bride.

Technically, lighting, setting, and props are all on cue and within the period and the choice of music interspersing the scene changes is inspired.

Runs until Saturday, if you cannot make it, the play is also presented at Deane Golf Club on November 12 to 15.

Peter Haslam