The Drowsy Chaperone

Leading a cast which had a lovely ensemble feel, in the third week of production was Rp van der Westhuizen, stepping into the shoes of leading man/ commentator/ narrator Man in Chair and doing an outstanding job. Less than six days after completing a major role in Curtains, Rp played this wordy leading role with excellence, nuance and subtle effete, in a performance that won the audience hearts. He was taking over the role from champion cricketer Andy Peckover, who was called away by sporting commitments.

In the title role was Karen Godfrey, sounding fabulous and very funny as The Drowsy Chaperone, while juvenile leads Robert Martin and Janet van de Graff were sweetly played by Meyer van der Westhuizen and Isabella Bourgault du Coudray. 

This show is filled to the brim with over-the-top characters, and this cast was having great fun giving them flesh. Polly Bonner was a delight as a doddery Mrs Tottendale, playing well against Colin Howe as her servant called Underling. Thomas Pestrucci is likeable as best man George. Les Smithwick gives great bluster too producer Mr Feldzieg with Bindi Jordan very funny as the clueless Kitty.

Bryan Bonner and Kelly Cure gender flip nicely as gangsters, while Joel Gal finds the fun in lothario Aldolpho. Kristan Norris brings joy with her late-in-show appearance as Trix the Aviatrix, with Tammy Peckover delivering a lovely cameo as the superintendent. An enthusiastic ensemble is kept busy throughout, and nicely execute Christine Treg’s choreography.

A single box set serves the production very effectively, while Sheryl Delaporte has co-ordinated a large number of 1920s costumes. The show is nicely lit by Terry Peckover.

Vocal director Christina Fahl has prepared the cast well, and they perform to a quality instrumental track. Sound balance is very good under the control of Mike Rogers.

Such a fun script that definitely left its audience smiling - and a great way to finish the year at Murray Music and Drama Club. 

Kimberley Shaw