It Runs in the Family

St Pauls (Astley Bridge) AODS

 

WHEN picturing a doctors' common room you may imagine peace, intellectual conversation and an air of tranquillity. However, this is not the case at St Anthony's, the setting of Ray Cooney's medical farce which can be likened to a Carry On script.

St Pauls AOS attack this play head on with a wealth of experience and comedy talent aplenty.

Tim Shorten plays Dr Mortimore with an assured confidence that soon borders on the edge of hysteria as he prepares for an important speech. The arrival of his illegitimate son, Leslie, sends things awry and that's when the fun begins. His colleague, Dr Bonney is soon roped in and here we have some great comedy moments safe in the hands of Ian Duckworth.

Daniel Parkinson plays punkish Leslie with confidence and is ably supported by Carmela Horne as his mother who has turned up to help him find his daddy.

Adding more confusion is Howard Clare as Bill. The many one liners were delivered in style by Clare who adapts to comedy roles well and created many laugh out loud moments.

The set was effective and given the size of stage available, stage manager Len Powell and his team should be congratulated on presenting a workable set that was well used.

With a talents supporting cast, director by Allen Chrisey-Casson has set off this season with a top class production.

By Paul Cohen