BILLED as “a daft comedy about greed”, Blake Morrison’s For Love or Money is a clever piece that brings love, dishonesty and intrigue together, played out by a mix of characters who manage to fall in and out of love, defraud and deceive all in one day. The impressive set, complete with faded wallpaper where pictures once hung, and long corridor used for the majority of entrances, looked great and gave the feel of a late 1920s property.

As Widow Rose, given a suitable air of snobbishness by Sue Mallett, embarks on a life with very little means, she is certainly rich in the admiration department as she has two gentleman callers vying for her attention. In keeping with her demeanour, the attention of Fuller, a bank manager seems right up her street as she accepts the expensive gifts willingly. Vincent Bradley is at home in this role, looking distinguished and with a consistent Yorkshire accent.

The introduction of second admirer, Arthur, a doctor’s son, makes for an unlikely pairing, but his charm and seemingly winning ways are enough to turn Rose’s head. Sebastian Fitzharris as Arthur is refreshing and confident. His interactions with odd job man Jack played with a cheeky swagger by Craig Harris, worked well.

As in all comedies, timing is of the essence and needs handling very carefully. Carol Butler delights as Marlene the housekeeper and in her dual role as Gwen, Fuller’s sister. Both funny performances that were well delivered and received, providing many of the evenings biggest laughs. In equal measure, Kev Walsh as Farmer Martin played a cracking part, gaining laughs from a number of one liners that hot the right spot.

With support from Stuart O’Hara as bank clerk Ruddle, Jade Laithwaite as the maid, and Frances Clemmitt a Teresa, Fuller’s estranged wife, Director Simon Mott presents a polished cast who in turn present an enjoyable night’s theatre to a capacity audience.

Paul Cohen

BATS