Press Review

GOING FOR A WALK ON THE WILDE SIDE

A Wilde night was had by all at the opening of the Arts Forum Festival. The Barton-based Shooting Fish Theatre Company thrilled the audience with an outdoor – and hilarious – production of The Importance Of Being Earnest. Set in the beautiful grounds of the Oaklands Hotel and Country Club. Near Laceby, the timeless Oscar Wilde play sprang to life.

It seems a little unfair to single out the actors as they all put on an outstanding performance, doing justice to their characters. But, partly dictated by the script, a couple stood out. Darren Bolton effortlessly embodied the caddish Algernon Moncrief, bring the best out of every one-liner with his comic timing and over-the-top expressions. Karen Winchester put in a great performance as Lady Bracknell. Her ferocious screeches and splutters of disgust portrayed this prospective mother-in-law from hell to perfection.

Some of the biggest laughs, though, were reserved for the less obvious scenes. Miss Prism’s wide-eyed pawing of Dr Chasuble and the quarrel between Gwendolen and Cecily were particularly well executed, with brilliant improvisation.

One thing is certain, it would be carelessness to miss this professional production.

The Grimsby Telegraph

 

(2007)

Oscar Wilde, adapted by Shooting Fish Theatre Company.

Oscar Wilde’s wonderfully witty depiction of the Victorian ruling class is largely regarded as one of the best-written comedies in the English language.

The delightful plot takes us from London to Hertfordshire in a tale of class pretension, social ambition and romantic gamesmanship. This celebrated play performed in a unique open air setting promises to serve as a perfect accompaniment to a warm summers evening.

Cast List

• Algernon Moncrief - Darren Bolton

• Jack Worthing - Christopher Anstey

• Gwendolen Farifax - Rachel Pratt

• Cecily Cardew - Emily Bignell

• Lady Bracknell - Karren Winchester

• Miss Prism - Jeannine Ridha

• Dr Chasuble - Andrew C Husband

• Lane / Merriman - Sara Jackson