Striking A Happy Note Strike Happy Victoria Hall A.D.S.

The Lower Theatre, Knowsley Street, Thurs 17th to Sat 19th May, 7.15pm Ignoring the modern trend for abrasive observational humour, this production transports us back to a more gentle era, where humour comes from characters and in particular the eternal struggle between the sexes. The plot is of course a little dated, but director Barry Massey has overcome this with an authentic 1960s setting presenting us with a suitably drab living room with period furniture. The costumes and properties are also authentic and of the era, even down to the correct currency – it’s a long time since I saw a ten bob note!

The cast clearly enjoy themselves, led by a very likeable Robert Goodier as Albert Helliwell, and with dependable support from Anne Heaton as his wife Clara. Matt Wilkinson gives us a chirpy performance as potential son in law George, and the characters of Mr Tapeworth (Rob Sharp) and Mrs Flannel (Natalie Quinn) provide most of the humourous situations that the hapless Albert finds himself in. Lauren Webb is charming as daughter Elsie, whilst Courtney Hargreaves supplies a sexy Rosie Flannel.

Runs until Saturday Peter Haslam