IT's 'SARNIES' Time Again! Get Your Vote IN! (See Page 9)

December 2014 | No. 48 | Quarterly www.bromleylittletheatre.org

THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF

MICHAEL YORK OBE PRESIDENT:

Mr. KIPLING: EXCEEDINGLY GOOD … ! It’s ‘SArnies’ time again! Get your vote in! (see page 9) • Reviews: All The Great Books (Abridged) | My Boy Jack | RolePlay | Collaborators | VPL#2 • Auditions: The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice | Daisy Pulls It Off | The Pitmen Painters • Previews: Great Expectations | Brighton Beach Memoirs | Crooked Wood | The Elephant Man + Events Diary • Noticeboard Andrew Newbon, BLT Chair Key Contacts James Dammers, Kyle Cluett and B Giles Tebbits in y the edgier or less well-known. When you Key Contact Areas: BLT’s September - production of time renew your membership you may like to My Boy Jack. you all make use of our online membership appli [email protected] [email protected] read this, cation system via our website. You can still we will be renew by cheque in the usual way. Chairman: about to One of the clear recommendations in the present Key:[email protected] Jane Buckland

Photo: Tim Hinchliffe (www.timhinchliffe.com) Tim Hinchliffe Photo: our final report we commissioned on the future of Tel: 07900 580841 - production the theatre, was that we must, as a matter of the sea of urgency, make it easier for non-members Finance: son. Since to book and pay for tickets. We are in the Key: Howard Binysh taking over process of changing our premises licence in [email protected] as Chair of the BLT Board a year ago, order to facilitate this. I will be able to give - Spotlights I have continued to admire the way so you more information about our plans in Artistic: many volunteers work hard to run our lit the next issue of (March 2015). tle theatre and put on productions of such [email protected] We have been working hard this year on Keys: Pauline Armour / Jane Buckland high quality. In the last twelve months, Tel: 07984 722308 long term plans for the theatre and ways I have had the opportunity to see the place of securing and developing the building so through the eyes of a number of first time - Youth Group: that BLT can thrive for many years to come. visitors, as we look to refurbish the theatre - These things take time but we hope to be and raise our profile in Bromley: architects, [email protected] - gin to see some improvements in the build solicitors, the Mayor of Bromley, Derek ing and its facilities over the next twelve Membership: Jacobi, Michael York (although not techni months. I suspect our current membership cally his ‘first time’ here) and on each is actually a treasure trove of expertise and Key:[email protected] Christina Jeremiah occasion, I find myself immensely proud experience. If you have any background Tel: 07871 155216 of our achievements and gratified by these - in marketing, building, law, fund-raising visitors’ enthusiasm for the place and its Box Office: etc. and would be prepared to offer your work, yet I’m also conscious of the scruffi - services to us, either as a one-off informal ness of our premises. Sometimes BLT feels conversation or something requiring a lit Key:[email protected] Paul Ackroyd like a dowager in a track suit. Tel: 079178 53621 tle more commitment, please get in touch We have a proud record of ending the with me. Spotlights magazine: season year on a year with our accounts in Can I also repeat a request for members to the black by a few thousand pounds and Key: Stevie Hughes become involved in backstage and front of [email protected] attendance and membership figures have - house work? If you can spare one evening a held up well. We have, however, found that month? – or year! – to make coffee or serve Website: David Scott-Lucas and while the last few performances of a run of Sue Williams in BLT’s behind the bar or want to learn how to build ten sell out, numbers attending the shows Key: Stevie Hughes October production of a set, operate lights or sound, or become one of the first weekend are lower. Please be [email protected] RolePlay of our front of house team, selling tickets assured that our cast and crew do not need or ensuring the comfort and safety of our a couple of performances to get into the Publicity: audiences, then please email me and I will swing of things. Our productions are well pass your message on to the relevant person. Key: Pat Jones rehearsed, will have had three full dress [email protected] rehearsals on the Monday Tuesday and Finally our members’ Christmas party is Bar: Wednesday, a preview performance to a on Friday 19th December and I hope to see charity audience on the Thursday and by a number of you there. Do come up and the opening night are absolutely ready to introduce yourselves to me if we haven’t Key:[email protected] Pauline Pead Tel: 01689 870326 go. I would like to start a tradition at BLT already met. of selling out opening nights and booking early to get your favourite seats. Merry Christmas everyone and a Happy Bromley Little Theatre New- Jane Year! Buckland • Next year’s season looks very exciting with ([email protected]) www.BromleyLittleTheatre.org our usual mixture of popular, well-known Registered Charity No. 1132561 President: Michael York OBE plays and authors, and some which are Spotlights

is published by Bromley Little ‘Spotlights’ is designed and typeset by: Theatre Ltd., NorthSpotlights Street, Bromley, Kent COVER: BR1 1SB. Any views or opinions expressed 07789 123719 Steve Williams in BLT’s September’s by individuals in are done so production of My Boy Jack independently and are not necessarily graphic design • web design • sound design Call: [email protected] www.triocreative.com Photo: Phil Cairns (philcairns.zenfolio.com) the opinions of Bromley Little Theatre Ltd. or its directors.  Latest News & Diary NoticeboardLatest News Dates Important changes to ticketing arrangements 2014/2015 Nigel was born in Crofton, went to Bromley Grammar School, in the same year as Fri 5 – Sat 13 Dec 2014 at 7.45pm from January 2015 Michael York, and began acting and singing Great Expectations in many local theatre groups including BLT ABOLITION OF PRE-PRINTED TICKETS from the age of 10. - Directed by Pauline Armour W by Charles Dickens / adapted by Neil Bartlett TicketSource,ith so many members now using the Fri 19 Dec 2014 at 7.30pm Their first play together as Juniors had Ni online ticket booking service through gel as Demetrius and Michael as Helena in BLT Xmas Party! we have decided that it now ‘The Dream’. After many other productions makes sense to move away from using pre- Contact the box office to reserve your place! together, Michael took revenge and played In The Bar In The printed, paper tickets at the theatre. Bassanio to Nigel’s Portia! During the dress As from January 2015, entry to our 2015: Happy New Year! TicketSource rehearsal the cotton wool stuffing in Nigel’s shows will either be by e-tickets sent by mock bra dispersed itself around the stage Fri 12 - Sat 24 Jan 2015 at 7.45pm or by ‘thermal’ tickets printed while Michael was held up entering as he at the BLT box office. had a major issue with his tights. Brighton Beach TicketSource Memoirs If you book online, please print off the e- Directed by Arthur Rochester ticket sent to you by and show by Neil Simon this for entry to the theatre. If you are Sun 18 Jan 2015 unable to print it off or forget to do so, just Auditions call in at the box office and we will print at 1.00pm: you your ‘thermal’ tickets.TicketSource at 3.00pm: The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice If you book via the telephone at 5.00pm: Daisy Pulls It Off booking service on 0333 666 3366, or Thu 29 TheJan -Pitmen Sun 1 FebPainters 2015 at 7.45pm from the box office in person, there will be Crooked Wood no change to your ticketing arrangements except that the physical tickets will look a little different -

In The Bar In The Directed by Jessica-Ann Jenner by Gillian Plowman Fri 13 - Sat 21 Feb 2015 at 7.45pm Members who reserve tickets to pay on arrival for themselves or their guests should The Elephant Man remember that such bookings are not con Directed by Tony Jenner firmed until such TicketSourcetime as they are paid for. Sir Derek Jacobi cbe and BLT’s Pat Jones byFri Bernard 13 – Sat Pomerance 21 Mar 2015 • at 7.45pm No e-mail confirmation of reserved tickets A Chorus Of Disapproval will be sent from in future. Directed by Kay O’Dea Reserved tickets must be collected at least 15 minutes before the performance starts bySat Alan 28 Feb Ayckbourn 2015 at • 7.00pm or they may be resold. Nigel Rideout’s latest book launch in Australia The ‘Sarnies’ Awards! These arrangements will save BLT about with Sally Burton, widow of Richard Burton. BLT’s very own Oscars ceremony! £1,500- Paul Ackroyd, per year. • Sir Derek Jacobi cbe gives a gala performance at BLT! Thu 26 - Sun 29 Mar 2015 at 7.45pm Box Office Manager Harper Regan The private family theatre collection of As Luck Would Have Sir George Alexander – Nigel’s ancestor, n Sunday 12th October, BLT members- ItHis autobiography (which was also on sale on The evening was held in aid of the Motor NEWSNigel OF Rideout EX-BLT MEMBERS In The Bar In The Directed by David Griffiths donned posh frocks, dinner jackets the evening) is entitled Neurone Disease Association, which was by Simon Stephens the actor-manager of London’s St. James’s- Fri 17 – Sat 25 Apr 2015 at 7.45pm Theatre in the late 19th century – is now and black ties for a gala charity fund-rais and, as he himself pointed out, this title is particularly fitting as this disease recently BLT’s entry for the BTG and KDA Festivals 2015 safely housed in the University of Roches ing evening with none other than Sir Derek particularly apt since he professed himself robbed us of two erstwhile BLT stalwarts, ctor, teacher, director, theatre archivist Howard Wilson and Fred Ridgeway. A ter Library, New York State, alongside those Jacobi CBE, interviewed on the BLT stage. to be probably “the luckiest actor ever”. To Compleat Female and writer – Nigel Rideout has enjoyed O grand total of £2,760.79 was raised for the more than 50 years in professional theatre, of Sir Henry Irving, Sir Arthur Wing Pinero illustrate this, he treated us to some delicious The evening began with a champagne anecdotes from his fascinating career, starring MNDA, with Sir Derek generously giving Stage Beauty film and television. and Gilbert and Sullivan.First Steps Towards his time free. Indeed, he was kind enough Directed by Jane Buckland and canapés reception, after which we all such luminaries as Sir Laurence Olivier, Sir An Acting Career to contact Pat later to say how much he had AHis work in actor-training has involved His current two books: took our seats in the theatre and waited Ian McKellen and a hilariously scurrilous one Fri 15 – Sat 23 May 2015 at 7.45pm Training The Actor’s Voice enjoyed the evening and to send his thanks. by Jeffrey Hatcher • him in the running of three academies in with a foreword by Dame excitedly for the great man to appear. involving Noel Coward. The Rise And Fall Of London; LAMDA, Central and Mountview Judi Dench and He did not disappoint. - Grateful thanks are also due to Pauline as well as guest teacher in many others in [email protected] a foreword by ex-graduate, Hugh As the evening progressed we were - Pead, Andrew Newbon, Jess and Tony Little Voice the UK, America and Australia. However, he reminded that while luck may well have Jenner, Howard Binysh, Phil Buckland and Directed by Wayne Sheridan The Jackman,www.act1scene1.biz are available from Ann Adlem at: The evening took the form of a conversa by Jim Cartwright Westernis most proud Australian of the Academy international of Performing success or via Nigel’s tion with our very own Pat Jones, who was played a small part in Sir Derek’s early suc- all the other behind the scenes ‘crew’ who Fri 12 – Sat 20 Jun 2015 at 7.45pm Artsof so many of his WAAPA graduates ( website: also the prime mover in organising the cess, the majority of it can be attributed to helped to make the evening such a success Daisy Pulls It Off Whatever Happened To Stagecraft? event. Without being armed with so much his skill as a performer. His masterful sto – but chiefly to Pat Jones, who worked so Directed by Jessica-Ann Jenner in Perth), since he was invited to found MemTwo oriesfurther And books Tributes are well underway: as a clipboard and displaying a relaxed, rytelling held the audience spellbound for tirelessly to make the whole event happen. and direct their now celebrated theatre and easy interviewing style that would put well over an hour and, as you might expect We wait with bated breath to see which byFri Denise 10 - Sat Deegan 18 Jul • 2015 at 7.45pm departmentFri 19 Dec 2014 in 1982. at 7.30pm - 11.30pm | Smart dress required . • Michael Parkinson to shame, Pat quizzed from one of our most illustrious actors, he illustrious theatrical knight she will coax The Pitmen Painters Sir Derek on his career. certainly knows how to spin a yarn! onto- Paul the Campion BLT stage next! • Directed by Pauline Armour BLT Playgoers’ Christmas Party 2014! Music • Refreshments • Mulled Wine • Father Christmas • Raffle • Games • Carols “I had a very enjoyable time. Well done and thank you. I was delighted with all the thanks byExcept Lee forHall In • The Bar shows, [email protected] there are no performances on a Sunday. and comments from your members which Pat sent to me. Derek.” Free to members but please email box office to book: Noticeboard Previews Previews A year to remember! Fri 5 – Sat 13 Dec 2014 at 7.45pm Fri 16 – Sat 24 Jan 2015 at 7.45pm Thu 29 – Sun 1 Feb 2015 (at 7.45pm) Fri 13 – Sat 21 Feb 2015 at 7.45pm (not Sun 7) (not Sun 18) (not Sun 15) Motor Neurone Disease Association. In The Bar I have known Derek ever since he was What an exciting year it has been for BLT! at Birmingham Rep in the early 1960s, A Doll’s House but I never dreamt that I would ever be • Apart from all our usual shows, our onstage with him for over an hour! I still production of went on - haven’t come back down to earth yet ! tour – pulling in crowds at the London Clybourne Park Theatre and Brockley Jack Theatre. But what will 2015 bring? How do we fol low- Pat all Jones that? Watch this space! • • In the spring, , our entry for the Bromley Theatre Guild and the Kent Drama Association festivals, swept Anne Hever Castle 2015 the board with a total of 21 awards! Boleyn Anne Boleyn • Then in the summer, we took to the Hever Castle Festival Open Following the success of this Air Theatre. We had almost full houses year, we have been invited back to Hever and standing ovations every night and in 2015 – but the dates are different: we we were so lucky with the fine weather! have been offered the week commencing Monday 10 August (for the get-in) with • In August, we were delighted to receive performances on 13, 14, and 15 August. our President, Michael York obe, to the theatre to meet our Vice-President, Bill So we need to know who is available and Morley, the Board and the Playgoers’ keen to be involved. I will direct again and Committee. Michael now lives in Los will choose a script dependent on who is Angeles and this was his first visit to the - available and what suits the programming theatre since treading our boards back in team at Hever. I have some ideas already 1960 and Spotlightshe enjoyed theBLTins trip down Mem but need to know what can be cast at a Great Brighton Beach Crooked Wood The Elephant time when many people are on holiday. ory Lane. I keep him up to date about BLT - via email, and . Expectations Man Cly- As soon as I have an idea of availability, Memoirs Directed by Jessica-Ann Jenner by Gillian Plowman • Thebourne following Park month saw our return to I will consider possible scripts and an the Brockley Jack – this time with nounce auditions on our web site. I will Directed by Arthur Rochester Directed by Tony Jenner by Charles Dickens by Neil Simon by Bernard Pomerance and another great success. audition and cast in February and rehearse Directed by Pauline Armour - Adapted by Neil Bartlett - regularly throughout the year so that the A black comedy both funny and moving. • We invited The Mayor and Mayoress of reat Expectations The Cripple Of Inishmaan production is ready by July and just needs Golden Future Properties have the oppor Bromley, Councillor and Mrs Julian Ben The first of a trilogy of plays by Neil Simon Forget the David Lynch movie version of polishing up in August. It means that G tunity of a lifetime: in five days, a middle- ington, to see is one of the world’s about his own early life, this play was a the story of the horribly disfigured John people will have to be prepared to fit in eastern property developer is going to buy and they were very impressed with the most read and loved novels. Indeed, Broadway smash and made a star and Tony Merrick – in this stage version, it is the extra Hever rehearsals alongside other BLT Keynes Road for a handsome sum. The only high standard of acting and production - Dickens himself felt that it was his best Award-winner of Matthew Broderick. Set dramatist’s instruction that Merrick, the production rehearsals - possibly Friday property still inhabited is ‘Crooked Wood’, and asked to have one of our charity work, calling it “a very fine idea”. And in the Brighton Beach section of Brooklyn, ‘Elephant Man’ himself, be played without - evenings and Saturday afternoons through a crumbling, Victorian house with an 87 preview evenings for their charity. Please let me know by Monday 15 now Neil Bartlett has created a powerful New York in September 1937, it’s as funny prosthetics or special makeup, relying out the year. stage version of this great story using only as any of Simon’s comedies but also warm year-old occupant. How hard could it be to on the actor’s skill and the audience’s • October brought a “wonderful, won December if you wish to be involved. Dickens’ extraordinary words and a cast of and empathetic. It focuses on the coming- persuade her to leave? imagination to provide his grotesque derful night” as one of our members ([email protected]) eight actors. of-age of Eugene Jerome, the 15-year-old deformities. Fairground freak shows may described it: Sir Derek Jacobi cbe gave - Pauline Armour - character who is Neil Simon’s surrogate. not be acceptable today but we have our • From its opening image of Pip, alone on the CAST: Jan Greenhough his time freely to come to BLT and be own form of voyeurism in exploitative windswept marshes, to the haunted dark Obsessed with baseball, experiencing interviewed onstage by me in aid of the - Miss Barwick : Piers Newman television programmes that pander to the ness of Miss Havisham’s cobweb-strewn lair, sexual awakening and searching for an same feelings. This play makes us question Sophia Danes and Mike Savill in BLT’s Bartlett’s inventive and atmospheric adap identity in the awkward years between Andrew VietchJaimi : Keemer those feelings as it explores Merrick’s story production of Anne Boleyn which tation brings to thrilling, theatrical life this being a kid and an adult, living through the Sally Veitch : Phil Cairns through dramatic story-telling – at times transferred to the 2014 Hever Festival. classic exploration of childhood terrors and Great Depression, the inevitability of World - harsh, sometimes humorous but always hopes, and adult dreams and regrets. With War II and anxiety over the fate of relatives Quentin Gilbey :Mike Savill engaging and compassionate. a minimalist setting, multi-role playing, im still in Poland. Murray Lester : • aginative lighting and recurrent sounds, this This is a hilarious but affecting comedy Paul Ackroyd production provides a strong ensemble with with heart, wit and insight. Simon clearly CAST: a magnificent dramatic challenge. sets out to go beyond humour and touches Carr Gomm/ConductorCharis : Anna Beyer Pete Ditchburn a level of emotion we can all share. His CAST: Kyle Cluett keen observation of common, recognisable Pinhead/Countess : Pip : Howie Ripley behaviour and his creation of a historical - John MerrickTom Dignum : setting that brings the Depression and the Magwitch/Sarah Pocket/A Sergeant : Hazal Han Holocaust to life, make it a richly entertain Ross : Debbie Griffiths ing theatrical experience. Dennis Packham Mrs Joe/Biddy/Wemmick : Pinhead/Duchess :

Harrison North James Riley Andy Solts CAST: Bishop Walsham How : Joe Gargery/Mr Jaggers/Bentley Drummle : Dan Ryan Emma Sweeney Eugene : Belgian Policeman/Porter : Imogen Rampton Hazal Han Stanley : Mrs Kendal : Steve Williams Estella : Abigail Bailey Laurie : Peter Yolland Stevie Hughes Frederick Treves : Alison Green Nora : Miss Havisham/A Soldier : Niki Mylonas London Policeman/SnorkRobert Dilks : Jack : Giles Tebbitts : Fran Sheldon Man/Lord John Herbert Pocket/Mr Wopsle/Compeyson : Kate : Row Mafham : Blanche • Pinhead/Princess Alexandra/Nurse Jane Amos-Davidson Sandwich : • Mr Pumblechook • www.TicketSource.co.uk/BromleyLittle [email protected] • 0333 666 3366

To BOOK: Visit: • Email: Tel: Imogen Owen, Ella Tidswell and Imogen Rampton in BLT’s September In The Bar show All The Great Books (Abridged) Review The BLT ‘Sarnies’ awards ceremony 2014! as Harry Potter, she gave off an energy which made her a pleasure to watch and Saturday 28 February 2015! signalled another future talent to be on the It’s time to vote again for yout favourite BLT show, performance or lighting design! look-out for. - The ‘Sarnies’ awards ceremony for 2014 will take place on The foil to these characters was, of course, To cast your ballot, please tick your top three choices in order of preference. There is no need to vote in every award category! Miss Owen. In the role of idiot savant, Imo BLT Sarnies, 27 Heathfield Road, Bromley BR1 3RN 6 Feb 2015 Once you have made your selections, these 4 pages should either be placed in the voting box found in the BLT bar, or posted to: gen’s performance as student teacher was to arrive no later than Monday for your vote to count. expressive, exciting and energetic. From UNSUNG HERO: q q q David Griffiths q q q Richard Toynton her first, late appearance to her tour de (The Thrill Of Love) Julius Caesar force delivery of a cavalcade of great texts, she was continually in role - no mean feat q q q Stevie Hughes q(Cassius, q q Howie Ripley) for any actor racing around at breakneck OUSTANDING CONTRIBUTION 2014: (The Importance Of Being Earnest) Julius Caesar speed. Sometimes with only seconds for a

hasty change of attire, be it a skirt, Father q q q Pauline Armour q(Mark q Antony, q Robert Dilks) Christmas hat Odysseyor during a hilarious routine- (Clybourne Park) Julius Caesar with a pantomime horse featured in a version of the , Imogen and Ella- ac LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT: q q q Kay O’Dea q(Julius q Caesar, q Chris Learmonth) quitted themselves perfectly in this equine (Office Suite) The Cripple Of Inishmaan dance routine and demonstrated a mar vellous sense of rhythm in very confined (Cripple Billy, ) - q q q Jane Buckland q q q Bob Etherington circumstances. (Julius Caesar) FAVOURITE MAIN HOUSE PRODUCTION Nonetheless, putting these individual per The Cripple Of Inishmaan formances under the microscope does not q q q Nikki Packham (Johnnypateenmike, 1st 2nd 3rd do justice to the success of the night. There (The Cripple Of Inishmaan) q q q Steve Williams) was no doubt as to the alchemy between My Boy Jack q q q Boeing-Boeing these three. They bounced off each other, q q q Tony Jenner saved each other when lines went awry, (My Boy Jack) q(Rudyard q q Kipling,ames Dammers) q q q The Thrill Of Love improvised wildly, interacted deliriously My Boy Jack J and did not stop working for the whole 94 q q q Debbie Griffiths q q q The Importance Of Being (John ‘Jack’ Kipling, ) minutes of the show. Yes, the frenetic pace (Roleplay) q q q James Mercer Earnest and demands of the play occasionally left RolePlay

things a little ragged around the edges but q q q Mike Savill q q q Clybourne Park (Justin Lazenby, ) this was all part of its abundant charm. (Collaborators) q q q Paul Campion Collaborators Novel touches permeated the show, such as q q q Office Suite q q q Pauline & Dave Armour Jessica Farquaharson’s welcoming guitar - (Great Expectations) (Stalin, ) q q q Richard Toynton recital or completely new tracts of business q q q Julius Caesar Collaborators including a marvellous rap, a musical trib ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE ute to the complete Harry Potter series and q q q The Cripple Of Inishmaan (Bulgakov, ) 1st 2nd 3rd q q q Stevie Hughes a hilarious skit between Becca Ridleston Collaborators q q q My Boy Jack and Abi Bailey fusing Austenian letter- q q q Martin Phillips writing with various email tropes, proving Boeing Boeing q(Vladimir, q q Pete Ditchburn) RolePlay September 2014 particular standouts. q q q Great Expectations (Bernard, ) Wayne and the team’s vision was coherent q q q Chris de Pury fusion of high drama and the magnificently q q q Collaborators (Pip, ) surreal. It was clear that the unexpected and accomplished given the limitations of Boeing Boeing ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE s a former student of the Reduced the bar. Lighting and sound were slick and was to be expected and it was delivered in q q q Great Expectations (Robert, ) 1st 2nd 3rd Shakespeare Company’s particular- abundance. well-executed and special mention must q q q Paul Ackroyd brand of education, I thought it about time go to Ellen Burfot who had the mammoth The Thrill Of Love) q q q Karen O’Neill for a refresher course in matters liter The show started with Miss Rampton in task of pulling together the many props on FAVOURITE ‘In The Bar’ PRODUCTION proper school-ma’am fashion. Here was a (Jack Gale, Boeing-Boeing ary. Which is why, in earlyAll The September, Great Books I which the piece relies. Owing to the age and q q q Tom Collins A young actor clearly enjoying every minute (Abridged)enrolled for BLT’s rendering of Reed Martin inexperience of those involved, the slightly 1st 2nd 3rd The Importance Of q(Bertha, q q Jenny Staehle) of the show. Never afraid to work the crowd and Austin Tichenor’s more nuanced elements of the script were Being Earnest Boeing Boeing . Refresher course I got but also - no mean feat at such a tender age - she occasionally lost and a few gags didn’t quite q q q Night Of January 16th (Algernon Moncrieff, was unofficial master of ceremonies for the ) more - a great deal more. have the punch they mightthoroughly have in the q q q Sam Cormack q(Gretchen, q q Dorota Zakrzynska,) The Compleat Wrks Of evening; whether it be holding her own in a hands of more seasoned souls but that was q q q Two The Importance Of Being Boeing Boeing Following on from the success of their - Wllm Shkspr (Abridged) wonderful tourBlind de force Date of collected poetry by no means an issue. I enjoyed Earnest (Jack Sarnie-winning, Books with a difference; as game show host in a myself in an evening of well-executed com q q q All The Great Books (Abr.) Worthing, q(Gabriella, q q Jaimi Keemer) , Director Wayne - sort of literary or as a bucket- edy and blissful energy. q q) q Martin Phillips Boeing Boeing Sheridan’s decision to tackle was not wearing Don Quixote. Her witty quips and- - q q q VPL#2 Clybourne Park simply a case of ‘getting the band back to improvised interactions with audience Kudos and credit then toAll cast The andGreat crew. Books, As q(Gloria, q q Jessica )Webb gether’. It demanded a completely new cast: members, displayed a control and confi I contemplate where I shall frame my cer q(Russ/Dan, q q Howie Ripley) The Thrill Of Love

Imogen Rampton, Ella Tidswell and Imogen dence that suggests a stint on BLT’s main tificate for completing AWARD FOR DIRECTION (MAIN HOUSE) Clybourne Park Owen took us on a master class in Western stage should be in the offing soon. Profes- happily received at the end of the show, q(Ruth q Ellis, q Sarah Hinchcliffe) literature, 101 of the greatest books no less, sor I would like to offer my own award to the 1st 2nd 3rd (Karl/Steve, ) The Importance Of Being Earnest No less engaging was Ella … sorry … q q q Felix Catto (Lady hopefully leading to a graduation ceremony ‘Great Books Thingy Company’ and award- Tidswell’s performance. She displayed a Office Suite qBracknell, q q Charis Anna Beyer ) at the end. - them first prize for an evening of such fun. q q q Wayne Sheridan gift for comedy with a real sense of timing, The Importance Of No certificate I am afraid, but the perform Boeing-Boeing) (Mr Dodsworth/Lomax, ) The bar had been converted into a cross - ( q q q Steve Williams inhabiting her role with relish, evok ance,- Mike I amSavill sure, was its own reward! • Being Earnest between school room and old curiosity Julius Caesar (Gwendolen Fairfax, ing many a chuckle and was compelling Photos: Dave Jones (www.ashleighvideo.co.uk) shop with bric-a-brac and trinkets bedeck ) throughout. Whether astride a hobby horse (Brutus, ) ing the books that were revealed to us in a as Sancho Panza or soaring across the stage Sarnies 2014 Voting Form ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE (Cont.) q q q Kerrin Roberts q q q Helen Rowe q q q Michael Baker q q q Wayne Sheridan q q q Joe Hughes 1st 2nd 3rd Julius Caesar The Thrill Of Love My Boy Jack Night Of January 16th Julius Caesar

q q q Elizabeth Steele, q(Casca, q q Patrick) Neylan q(Doris q Judd, q Nikki Packham) q(Col. q Rory q Pottle, Paul Ackroyd ) q(Sweeney/Chandler, q q Piers Newman ) q(Metellus q q Cimber/Messala,Robin Ferguson ) The Importance Of Being Earnest Julius Caesar The Importance Of Being Earnest My Boy Jack Two Julius Caesar (Cecily (Miss (all male qCardew, q q Hilary Cordery ) q(Decius, q q Joe Hughes) qPrism, q q Laura Kenward ) q(Major q Sparks, q Richard Stewart) roles,ACTRESS ) IN A BAR SHOW q(Trebonius/Volumnius, q q Helen Scott ) Clybourne Park Julius Caesar Clybourne Park My Boy Jack Julius Caesar 1st 2nd 3rd q(Bev/Kathy, q q Trisha Osborne-King) q(Metellus q q Cimber/Messala,Robin Ferguson ) q(Betsy/Lindsey, q q Maxine Edwards) q(Mr Frankland,q q Michael Baker) q(Soothsayer/Plebeian, q q Ninoshka Gomes ) Office Suite Julius Caesar Clybourne Park Collaborators q q q Alison Green Julius Caesar Night Of January 16th

q(Miss q Prothero, q Karen O’Neill) q(Trebonius/Volumnius, q q Tom Collins ) q(Francine/Lena, q q Katrina Pancucci) q(General q qSecretary/Driver, Mike Savill ) q(Servant, q q Tom Raban) (Karen Andre, ) Office Suite Julius Caesar Julius Caesar Collaborators q q q Charis Anna Beyer The Cripple Of Inishmaan (Ligarius/Cinna Night Of January 16th (Nancy q(Doris, q q Emma) Kerby-Evans qthe poet/Pindarus,q q Tom Raban ) q(Titinius, q q Helen Scott) (Moliere, ) q(Bartly, q q Giles Tebbitts, ) Lee Faulkner, ) Office Suite The Cripple Of Inishmaan Julius Caesar ACTRESS IN A SMALLER ROLE q q q Jan Greenhough My Boy Jack Night Of January 16th

q(Doreen, q q Maxine) Hanson q(Bartly, q q Wayne Sheridan ) q(Soothsayer/Plebeian, q q Charis Anna Beyer ) 1st 2nd 3rd q(Guardsman q q Doyle,Justin Lazenby ) (Magda Svensson, ) Julius Caesar The Cripple Of Inishmaan Julius Caesar q q q Fiona Cullen RolePlay q q q Susie King The Night Of January 16th

q(Portia, q q Alison) Green q(Babbybobby, q q Philip Cohen ) q(Lucius, q q Freya Finnerty) Importance Of Being Earnest q(James q Mercer, q Paige Petite) (Elaine, (Sigrid Jungquist, ) Julius Caesar The Cripple Of Inishmaan The Cripple Of Inishmaan) q q q Debbie Griffiths (Doctor q q q Ninoshka Gomes) Two

q(Calpurnia/Plebeian, q q Emma Berryman ) qMcSharry, q q Kyle Cluett ) q(Helen, q q Margaret Glenn Julius Caesar q(Grace q Bishop, q Joe RolePlay) Dominic (all female roles, ) The Cripple Of Inishmaan) My Boy Jack The Cripple Of Inishmaan q q q Imogen Rampton Collaborators q(Servant, q q Charis Anna) Beyer All the Great Books

q(Eileen, q q Emma Kerby-Evans q(Guardsman q q Bowe,Giles Tebbitts ) q(Mammy, q q Sue Williams ) Collaborators q(Sergei, q q Roxanna) Graves (Miss Rampton, ) The Cripple Of Inishmaan My Boy Jack RolePlay q q q Ella Tidswell Collaborators q(Actor, q q Roxanna) Graves All the Great Books

q(Kate, q q Julie Binysh ) q(Guardsman q q Doyle,Andrew Newbon) q(Dee q Jobson, q Jane Buckland) Collaborators q(Eva, q q Pete) Ditchburn (Professor Tidswell, ) My Boy Jack My Boy Jack RolePlay q q q Imogen Owen Great Expectations q(Eva, q q Jan Greenhough) All the Great Books

q(Carrie q Kipling, q Charis Anna )Beyer q(Guardsman q q McHugh,David Scott-Lucas ) q(Arabella q q Lazenby,Jaimi Keemer) Collaborators q(Pip, q q Andy Solts) (Mrs. Gen. (Miss Owen, ) My Boy Jack RolePlay Collaborators Great Secretary / Lagrange, ) NEWCOMER q q q Hazal Han Expectations (Joe Gargery/ q(Elsie q ‘Bird’ q Kipling, Helen Scott ) q(Derek q Jobson, q Wayne Sheridan) q(Anna, q q Karen) O’Neill Collaborators 1st 2nd 3rd Mr Jaggers/ Bentley Drummle,

RolePlay RolePlay Collaborators q q q) Piers Newman (Nurse, ) q q q Chris de Pury q q q Jessica-Ann Jenner Two Boeing-Boeing q(Julie-Ann q q Jobson,Grace Bishop) q(Micky q Rale, q Kyle Cluett) q(Praskovya, q q Debbie Griffiths) Collaborators

RolePlay Collaborators Great Expectations q(all maleq qroles,Imogen ) Rampton (Actor, ) q(Robert, q q Jenny Staehle) (Mrs Joe/ All the Great Books (Paige Petite, ) (Grigory, ) Biddy/ Wemmick, ) ACTOR IN A BAR SHOW Boeing-Boeing q q q Julie Binysh q q q Joe Dominic q q q Jane Amos-Davidson Collaborators Collaborators Great Expectations q(Miss q Rampton, q Ella Tidswell ) 1st 2nd 3rd q(Gretchen, q q Dorota Zakrzynska) All the Great Books (Yelena, ) (Sergei, ) (Mr Pumblechook, ) Boeing Boeing q q q Hazal Han q q q Paul Green ACTOR IN A SMALLER ROLE q q q Josh Lawson (Professor Tidswell, ) Great Expectations Collaborators (Gabriella, ) q q q Imogen Owen Night Of January 16th q q q Helen Rowe 1st 2nd 3rd All the Great Books (Estella, ) (Vassily, ) The Thrill Of Love q q q Alison Green q q q Tom Dignum (Clerk, ) q q q Dennis Packham (Miss Owen, ) Great Expectations Collaborators q q q Phil Cairns The (Doris Judd, ) (Miss Night Of January 16th q q q Sam Cormack ACTOR OR ACTRESS UNDER 21 Importance Of Being Earnest Havisham/Soldier, ) (Stepan, ) (Merriman, The Importance Of Being q q q Howie Ripley, (Judge Heath, ) (Jack ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE ) q q q Steve Williams Earnest 1st 2nd 3rd Great Expectations q q q Andy Washbrook Worthing, (Magwitch/ Night Of January 16th Office Suite (District ) 1st 2nd 3rd Sarah Pocket / Sergeant, ) q q q Sarah Hinchcliffe q q q Ninoshka Gomes q q q Andy Solts Attorney Flint, ) (Boswell, ) q q q Paul Campion The Importance Of Being Julius Caesar Great q q q Paul Green (Lady q q q Dennis Packham (Joe Gargery/ Night Of January 16th Earnest Expectations Julius Caesar (Defence Bracknell, The Importance Of Being Jaggers/ Bentley Drummle, (Artemidorus/ q(Servant, q q Tom Raban) qAttorney q qStevens,Paul Baker ) q q) q Elizabeth Steele Earnest q q q) Giles Tebbitts qLepidus/Flavius q q Peter Yolland ) The Cripple Of Inishmaan (Dr Chasuble, Night Of January 16th The Importance Of Being Earnest Great Julius Caesar ) (Larry ‘Guts’ (Cecily (Bartly, ) q q q Chris Nelson Expectations (Herbert (Popilius/ q q q Imogen Rampton qRegan, q q Robert Dilks ) qCardew, q q Chris Nelson ) Clybourne Park Pocket/Wopsle/Compeyson, qCobbler/Messenger, q q Nigel Walker ) All the Great Books ) Night Of January 16th Clybourne Park Julius Caesar (John Graham q(Albert/Kevin, q q Matthew Platt ) ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE q(Miss q Rampton, q Ella Tidswell ) qWhitfield, q q Michael Baker ) q(Albert/Kevin, q q Maxine Edwards) Clybourne Park q(Cicero, q q Andy Washbrook) All the Great Books 1st 2nd 3rd Night Of January 16th Clybourne Park Julius Caesar (Dr Kirkland, q(Jim/Tom/Kenneth, q q Stevie Hughes ) q(Professor q q Tidswell,Imogen Owen ) q q q David Howkins) q(Francine/Lena, q q Andy Washbrook) Julius Caesar q q q Jane Lobb q(Soldier, q q Thomas) Fryer All the Great Books The Thrill Of Love Night Of January 16th Office Suite Julius Caesar q(Cinna/Lucilius/Plebeian, q q Christopher Nelson ) (Miss Owen, ) (Sylvia Shaw, ) q(John q Hutchins, q Patrick Neylan ) q(Boswell, q q Richard) Toynton Julius Caesar q q q Ami Williamson q(Citizen, q q Bill Morley) Night Of January 16th Julius Caesar The Thrill Of Love The Cripple Of Inishmaan (Marullus/Octavius, ) (Homer Van Fleet, ) (Cassius, ) 10 (Vickie Martin, ) (Man Of Aran, ) 11

2015 The 2014 ‘Sarnies’ awards ceremony will be held on: Saturday 28 February Tech Support for a Bar SHOW q q q Nigel Taylor Tom q q q Tony Jenner (My Boy Jack) Becca Ridleston, Abi Bailey, director Wayne Sheridan, Jessica Farquaharson, Imogen Rampton, Ella Tidswell Dignum (The Cripple Of Inishmaan) and Imogen Owen in BLT’s September In The Bar show & q q q Debbie Griffiths All The Great Books (Abridged) (To recognise theIn hardThe Barwork that goes into q q q Colin Adams (My Boy Jack) Wayne Sheridan (RolePlay) creating lighting, sound, set and costume & q q q Dave Jones Kerstin designs for our shows) q q q David Griffiths (RolePlay) q q q Tony Jenner (Collaborators) Beard (Night Of January 16th) & q q q Mike Savill, Tom Dignum q q q Dave Armour q q q Kyle Cluett Wayne Jessica-Ann Jenner (Collaborators) (Great Expectations) Sheridan (Two) & & q q q Colin Adams Tom q q q Wayne Sheridan Jessica- Dignum (Great Expectations) PROPERTIES & SET DRESSING Ann Jenner (All the Great Books) & & 1st 2nd 3rd LIGHTING DESIGN COSTUME DESIGN q q q Georgina ‘G’ Hatton 1st 2nd 3rd (Boeing-Boeing) 1st 2nd 3rd q q q Colin Adams Nick Abbot q q q Holly Marsh q q q Jessica-Ann Jenner (Boeing Boeing) (The Thrill Of Love) Kyle Cluett (Boeing-Boeing) & & q q q Howard Binysh q q q Stevie Hughes, Jan q q q Julie Binysh (The Thrill Of Love) Greenhough Charis Anna Beyer (The Thrill Of Love) (The Importance Of Being Earnest) q q q Colin Martin & q q q Lorraine Spenceley (The Importance Of Being Earnest) q q q Daphne Matthews (The Importance Of Being Earnest) (Clybourne Park) q q q Nick Abbott Howard q q q Kerstin Beard Binysh (Clybourne Park) q q q Cast crew (Office Suite) (Clybourne Park) &

q q q Nick Abbott (Office Suite) q q q Charis& Anna Beyer, Jane q q q Cast crew (Office Suite) Buckland Jan Greenhough q q q Howard Binysh q q q Kerstin& Beard (Julius Caesar) (Julius Caesar) & (Julius Caesar) q q q Jan Greenhough Tom q q q Nick Abbott q q q Kerstin Beard Collins (The Cripple Of Inishmaan) 2015 membership is now due. (The Cripple Of Inishmaan) & (The Cripple of Inishmaan) q q q Jessica-Ann Jenner To be actively involved in the theatre or to book tickets to see shows you must be a member. Only members q q q Andy Howell (My Boy Jack) Daphne Matthews (My Boy Jack) may book tickets for non-members. Membership is now available online via the BLT website or you can complete and send us the form below. q q q Kerstin Beard & Emma & Kerby-Evans (My Boy Jack) q q q Howard Binysh (RolePlay) q q q Pat Jones Judy Way Membership application form q q q Debbie Griffiths & cast (RolePlay) q q q Howard Binysh & (Office use only) (RolePlay) New application: q Renewal: q (Collaborators) q q q Holly Marsh Jessica-Ann Chkd: Date:

q q q Kay O’Dea (Collaborators) Jenner (Collaborators) q q q Dave Armour Howard & £16: q £25: q £35: q £6: q £6: q £ Binysh (Great Expectations) q q q Pat Jones, Daphne Subscriptions apply to the period from January to December Are you interested in taking an active part in the...... theatre? q q q Kerstin Beard & Adult Couple Family Junior Student Donation: (Great Expectations) Matthews Judy Way Couples: 2 adults at the same address (please list all below) Please tick below any activities that may interest you (Great Expectations) Family: membership for 2 adults and under 16s at the same address (please list all below) (no experience necessary!) SET DESIGN & Juniors: under 16s at start of the year of membership Students: full-time, over 16 (evidence may be required) SOUND DESIGN 1st 2nd 3rd Office use only 1st 2nd 3rd And finally, please fill in … ActingDirectingBackstageWardrobeLightingSoundPropsSet BuildingBox OfficeFrontCoffee/Ice of HouseBar CreamPublicityAdmin q q q Phil Cairns, Wayne Date of Birth (if under 16) Sheridan Tony Jenner (Boeing-Boeing) Title First name Last name q q q Wayne Sheridan Your name: (Boeing-Boeing) & q q q Tony Jenner (The Thrill Of Love) q q q David Griffiths (The Thrill Of Love) q q q Jan Greenhough (The Importance Of Being Earnest) q q q Stevie Hughes Your membership no. (The Importance Of Being Earnest) q q q Tony Jenner (Clybourne Park) q q q Colin Adams (Clybourne Park) Your contact details for Spotlights magazine delivery etc. Please enclose a cheque and a stamped, self-addressed envelope q q q Kay O’Dea (Office Suite) (NB: we cannot accept cash) q q q Keith Jeremiah q q q Tony Jenner Jan (Office Suite) Name: Greenhough (Julius Caesar) & q q q Keith Jeremiah Address: Post Code: q q q Bert Howell (Julius Caesar) Tel: Mobile: Date: £ (The Cripple Of Inishmaan) PleaseEmail: send your cheque (made payable to ) and SAE to: Membership, Bromley LittleCheque Theatre, enclosed North Street, for: Bromley BR1 1SB 12 Bromley Little Theatre 13 Wayne Sheridan, Helen Scott and James Mercer Review Review in BLT’s October production of RolePlay

The horror as well as the cameraderie of - trench warfare were effectively created by the three guardsmen, played by Giles Teb- bits, Andrew Newbon and Kyle Cluett. Their banter, notwithstanding rather questiona - ble Irish accents, injected some comic relief into what was primarily an intensely poign ant precursor to their imminent deaths. Kyle Cluett, as Guardsman Bowe, later delivered one of the most powerful of the evening’s performances as he revealed to the Kipling family the trauma of Jack’s last Steve Williams and moments. His remarkable depiction of what Kyle Cluett in BLT’s was then called shellshock came perilously September production close to being overplayed, but its intensity - of My Boy Jack and realism enthralled the audience. Richard Stewart gave a suitably understat September 2014 ed and sympathetic performance as Bowe’s companion Frankland and Michael Baker from their claustrophobic relationship. and Paul Ackroyd contributed well-defined In the later scene on the front line, he - and important cameos in their handling of In 1914, Rudyard Kipling, the central figure - convincingly displayed his newly-attained - Jack’s unsuccessful medical examination. in David Haig’sThe slightly Jungle over-written Book play, maturity as a young officer and was par is at the peak of his popularity, having al ticularly affecting in his final self-question The audiences at this production were ready written and awarded ing speech direct to the audience before privileged to become part of a creatively I the Nobel Prize for Literature. Steeped going ‘over the top’. staged, emotive piece of true theatre, in the ideals of duty and patriotism, he is imaginatively designed and directed and- (http://philcairns.zenfolio.com) Phil Cairns Photos: vociferous in his demands that every young n a delightful performance as Jack’s acted with enthusiasm, commitment and October 2014 Englishman should enlist to counter the elder sister, Charis Anna Beyer similarly consummate skill. This was an achieve German threat. demonstrated realistically the character’s- ment entirely worthy of and further development, from initial childishness to enhancing BLT’s outstanding reputation for RolePlay - When his own teenage son’s extreme maturity beyond her years, as she accus gripping drama. • lan Ayckbourn must have been very Julie-Ann: an ‘everyman’ representing the who drops in – literally – from the upstairs short-sightedness results in rejection for - Arthur Rochester ingly revealed to Kipling the real reason for Damselspleasantly In Distress surprised by ; it audience’s outlook on the proceedings be flat, with her gun-brandishing minder in service, Kipling uses his influence to secure Jack’s eagerness to escape from the family came virtually as an afterthought in his - ing played out onstage, he met his fiancée’s hot pursuit? No? Sorry! Paige is frantically the boy a commission in the Irish Guards. Photos: Phil Cairns (http://philcairns.zenfolio.com) circle. The relationships between the four GamePlan seriesFlatSpin but, unlike most flights of fancy with stoic incredulity that trying to escape her psychotically-jealous, Within two weeks of arrival in France he is members of this initially father-dominated sequels, outshone its intercapitalised sib - scored laughs every time. Together, they gangster boyfriend but Micky the minder declared ‘missing’. The play portrays, with family and the rifts which occurred and lings,A and . OK, so it’s not made a believable, but ill-matched team. knows he’ll incur his rage if he allows it. stark realism, the shattering impact on the- Paige was wonderfully portrayed by BLT widened over a twenty-year period, were strictly a sequel. It is classic Ayckbourn sub The aforementioned dinner party was family and ultimately on Kipling himself credibly drawn and entirely believable. ject-matter though: the dinner party that newcomer Grace Bishop. She gave Paige a to celebrate their engagement and bring - and Tony Jenner’s sensitive direction, cou goes catastrophically wrong. All three plays vulnerability that would flip into the tough This is a play which demands total realism together their respective parents for all to pled with finely drawn characterisations, pragmatism of the survivor in an instant, feature the same set and cast (but different meet. First up were Julie-Ann’s folks: York kept the audience enthralled throughout. in every aspect and the setting, which and her reactions to the other characters characters) and all focus on a woman in a shire garden centre magnate Derek Jobson had to encompass not only the study of were always apparent – never drifting off Steve Williams presented a remarkable crisis. It was originally staged ‘in the round’ and his prim ‘Little Woman’, Dee. Here were Kipling’s Sussex house but also the totally into the blank passivity that one often sees physical resemblance to Kipling and gave but has been adapted for a regular ‘end on’ Ayckbourn regulars: Derek was hilariously contrasting atmosphere of a trench on the - in actors who have nothing to say at that an insightful portrayal of this complex - set-up like that of our own dear theatre. played by David Scott-Lucas, laughing first Western Front, posed a challenge which- - moment. She really was a treat to watch. character, believably depicting his gradual- and loudest at his own lame and bigoted Tony Jenner’s imaginative design met The curtain goes up on a posh flat in Lon Her rapport with Micky, played by Wayne decline from unwavering self-belief to ulti jokes, and then sanctimoniously and prud with complete success. The floor-to-ceil don’s Docklands – all 1980s shiny black - Sheridan, was especially convincing. Micky mate remorse and torment at the realisa ishly condemning Julie-Ann’s two sisters for ing book-lined study was redolent of the décor and a split level that enabled the - was the stereotypically simple-minded tion of his own responsibility for his son’s their life choices. He swaggered arrogantly period and did service as background for actors to be seen upstage behind those fur heavy but one to which Wayne gave a real death. His early self-confidence and power, about the stage complete with beer-belly - other scenes with the aid of Andy Howell’s ther down – courtesy of set designers Deb sense of pathos. Unable mentally to keep up especially in his address to the audience, and dreadful haircut – both fake, I should - skilful lighting design. bie Griffiths, who also directed, and Wayne with the razor-sharp Paige, he was always contrasted beautifully with the disillusion Sheridan (more on him later). Straight away add. Sue Williams as Dee, her husband’s Lighting was also a critical element of the put on the back foot by her machinations ment of the later scenes and the final af we were plunged into the domestic world second-biggest fan, captured perfectly the - battle scenes, for which the study walls and cunning and Wayne captured perfectly fecting recital of the poem from which the of yuppie couple Justin (James Mercer) and cuddly fascism of the working-class snob in smoothly parted to reveal a convincing sand- - the frustration and childlike lack of guile play takes its title. - Julie-Ann (Helen Scott). To describe Julie- what I thought was a somewhat underwrit - bagged redoubt, complete with fire-step and that always left Micky one step behind Ann as highly strung would be an under ten part. All credit to Sue, for not trying to As Kipling’s American-born wife Carrie, ladders, surmounted by a symbolically glow everyone else. The laugh he got when, in statement: suffering a panic attack because compensate by overblowing her portrayal. Julie Binysh gave an equally affecting per ering, multi-coloured and changeable sky answer to what line of work he was in, he formance. At first, loyally in support of her of a missing dessert fork for their imminent Enter Arabella, Justin’s dipsomaniacal and doggedly replied: “Security!” was testimony which was, quite simply, a work of art. The- husband, she later left Kipling in no doubt dinner party and becoming a tight-lipped randy socialite mother, providing a flourish to the success of his characterisation. total effect was completed by Colin Adams’ - as to her feelings and showed great energy prude at any bad language that Justin to the end of the first half of the show. A bit excellent sound effects, not least the inces Despite the occasional lack of pace and a in the desperate search for information may let slip forth, Helen played the part of a stereotype maybe but Jane Buckland sant rainfall, evocative music and, of course, few late lines, this was a very funny produc about Jack’s fate. If her American accent with obvious relish and with such energy, was ideal for the role (in the nicest possible the almost physical impact of shell blasts, tion: consistently well-acted, well-directed was a little inconsistent, this in no way I was worried she might burn out – but sense!) and a fertile source of humour. And even though these inevitably rendered some and highly enjoyed by me – and by the rest detracted from a finely-crafted and wholly she kept up the heat right to the end. Her her hair looked fantastic! Once more, James- of the dialogue inaudible. Uniforms of the of the audience too, judging by the plentiful believable characterisation. wire-framed glasses, gawky posturing and as Justin played the straight-man perfectly, time were accurately reproduced and all Hi-de-Hi! laughter I heard. Yorkshire accent put me in mind of Peggy as she repeatedly and obliviously embar James Dammers gave a skilful portrayal of the costumes, by Kerstin Beard and Emma from but thankfully, Helen had the rassed him in front of all. CongratulationsAnotherShow to Debbie Griffiths on a the teenage Jack, struggling to come up to Kerby-Evans, were appropriate both to the skill, taste and direction to not let the role So – just a bit of the usual family friction excellent debut as a director – let’s hope his father’s unrealistic expectations whilst period and to the nature of each character, - Stevie Hughes Julie Binysh in BLT’s September production of become just a caricature. New to BLT, James and all a bit cosy really. Oh – did I not you do soon! • 14 concealing a desperate need to escape especially the two ladies’ superb gowns. 15 My Boy Jack Mercer as Justin was the perfect foil for mention Paige, the brash, ex-lapdancer Review November 2014 Auditions

“… this is probably the finest The Rise And Daisy Pulls It Off performance I have seen Fall Of Little by Denise Deegan from Paul , which is by Bernard Pomerance saying something, given his Voice 18 January 2015 at 3.00pm considerable(Campion) talent and credits.” Audition Date:

byDirected Jim Cartwright by Wayne Sheridan Thu 11 – Sat 20 June 2015 at 7.45pm Performance Dates: (not Sun 14) ollaborators Sun 18th January 2015 at 2.00pm Daisy - Audition Date: C by John Hodge is a truly ironically, we are told Stalin loves his work Northern English accent (I told you the Bulgakov. Having switched roles the men Pulls It Off An Olivier Award-winning comedy play was surreal!) which gave Stalin a learn that each other’s worlds are not as surreal piece of theatre from the mo – having seen one play 15 times! Bulgakov’s- - Thu 14 – Sat 23 May 2015 at 7.45pm is an absolutely ripping send softer, more homely and friendly feel as ment the curtain is raised. The opening dilemma? Stick to his beliefs and maintain easy as they seem – particularly Bulgakov, (noPerformance show Sun Dates: 17) up of the classic schoolgirl novel. Daisy opposed to the stern, angry Stalin that we scene introduces our ‘hero’ in bed with his his artistic integrity or write a play for Sta who discovers that whether you are a dicta Meredith is the first ever scholarship girl would expect. This enabled Paul to play wife as he endures his regular nightmare lin, whom he despises, sacrifice his integrity - tor or not, every decision you make for the at Grangewood School for Young Ladies. of being chased around his bedroom by a but guarantee a future for his work. him as something we rarely encounter – the ‘good of the country’ has inevitable and Wayne Sheridan - [email protected] audition pieces and further info, Can she overcome her poor upbringing, maleficent and frightening representation likeable despot. Yet there was always an un devastating negative consequences. - Richard Toynton as Bulgakov was superb. orcontact the director, , outwit the school bullies, master the rules of the dictator Joseph Stalin who, it appears, - derlying menace and threat and you were One never felt in any doubt about this man’s To ensure Bulgakov maintains his ‘enthu of hockey and find the lost treasure of is intent on killing him. Though the play be left in no doubt that he only had to say the See BLT website for more details • inner turmoil and his constant fight be siasm’ for the task in hand, he is watched 07808 208 118 Grangewood? comes less surreal after this, and positively - word and Bulgakov and his family would tween his beliefs and securing a future for by the ever-present secret service agents, If you like your hockey sticks jolly come dark in the second act, we never completely be wiped out. I asked Paul about the accent himself and his family. Whether in the sur and he rather astutely explained “... let’s Vladimir and Stepan. Stevie Hughes played along and audition…it’s going to be spiffing! discover whether everything that follows is Vladimir with great skill capturing the I am looking to cast an ensemble of “school Collaborators - real or ‘real’ moments, Richard displayed face it, if we had a revolution in this country - CHARACTERS: part of that hideous nightmare or real life. threatening oppression of the secret service girls” who will be played by women in their a mastery of his craft and was utterly now where would it come from? Not from- - The Pitmen 20s-30s. then, because of this surreal captivating. Julie Binysh as Yelena Bulgakov the South. It would be the Northerners and slipping comically into the stereotypi UPPER FOURTH ity, is arguably something of a ‘Marmite’ was equally enthralling as she watched her cal, decadent Westerner, as the secret serv- Painters that would rise up to defeat the oppres Daisy Meredith play; you either love it or you hate it, you husband wrestle with his inner turmoil, sors” (I will confess to a little paraphrasing ice man takes on the role of director and producer of the Bulgakov/Stalin collabora get it or you don’t. I will say from the outset never wavering in her support and love there!). I would argue that this is probably – The plucky scholarship tion. Tom Dignum as Stepan had little to say byDirected Lee Hall by Pauline Armour that I … loved it! Though, for the record, but watching with concern as her husband the finest performance I have seen from girl,Trixie honest Martin and courageous. I hate Marmite! fought his daemons. This was another fine Paul, which is saying something, given his in the play but expertly provided the ever- performance from a very talented actress. considerable talent and credits. present glowering menace of a KGB agent Sun 18th January 2015 at 5.00pm – Daisy’s best friend, a The play is centred on two men, both real who watches as his boss slowly ‘loses the Audition Date: madcapBelinda poet,Mathieson enthusiastic and loyal.

characters from history, but only one of Suddenly, into the mix, comes one Joseph Stalin convinces Bulgakov that they should- plot’ and who gets the promotion he desires them is definitely real. The other may or Stalin. Or does he? As soon as he appeared “collaborate” on a play about his life in after Vladimir’s sudden disappearance. Thu 9 – Sat 18 July 2015 at 7.45pm – Captain of the Upper Performance Dates: may not be there. Bulgakov is a man torn through the ingeniously designed sliding exchange for his other plays being per (no show Sun 12) FourthSybil Burlington and best all-round sportswoman. The play was brilliantly cast and the whole between two conflicting arguments – he is back wall, Paul Campion was brilliant as formed without closure. As it turns out ensemble provided a completely believable – Vice-captain of the a playwright in Stalinist Russia who’s Stalin. Not only did he look like the awful Stalin sees himself as a bit of a playwright range of characters and there are too many, Pauline Armour UpperMonica Fourth, Smithers conceited and beautiful. works, due to their anti-Stalin stance dictator, he created an immediate air of and sets about writing it himself, devolving For audition pieces and further info, sadly, to mention them all here. However [email protected] are gradually being closed down though, jovial menace. Paul played Stalin with a the responsibility of running the country to contact the director, : – School toady and chief Photos: Phil Cairns (http://philcairns.zenfolio.com) Kyle Cluett, as Bulgakov’s struggling young See BLT website for more details • cronyDora Johnsonof Sybil Burlington. protégé, who watches his hero succumb to his desires rather than stick to his beliefs, SIXTH FORM – Another student. deserves a special mention as do Paul - Claire Beaumont Green as Vassily and Peter Yolland as the doctor – the latter two giving their best per – Head girl and sports formances to date in my opinion. I am sorry captain, a shining example of British girlhood.Alice Fitzpatrick there is not enough room here to mention everybody but there was not a weak link – Deputy sports captain, amongst this cast and I was enthralled by prefect,SECOND best FORM chum of Claire Beaumont. everyone’s performance. - Winnie Irving

The set was another Tony Jenner master THE GROWN UPS – Another student. piece of simple and functional design with (Ages for these are flexible but must be random doors and sliding walls painted in - convincing parents/teachers for secondary a drab battleship grey but which provided a school pupils) great backdrop and allowed the slick move ment between scenes which is essential to Mademoiselle Please note: Daisy’s mother a play such as this. Director Mike Savill has - – a scatter-brained French created a brilliant piece of theatre at BLT mistressMrs Gibson (also plays ) and was happy for the scenes to flow seam lessly from one to the next with the actors MUST – Grangewood’s, young much- melting away as the new scene developed. BLT’s auditions are open to all but if lovedMiss Granville headmistress. This was essential to maintain the pace and you are chosen for a part, YOU was very well-managed by this director. BECOME A MEMBER BEFORE YOUR FIRST – Firm but fair form Collaborators REHEARSAL. mistress.Mr Scoblowski All in all, whilst perhaps not to everyone’s taste, to my mind was a The same goes for all backstage crew and – An enigmatic Russian triumph for cast, crew and director alike www.BromleyLittleTheatre.organybody who uses the theatre’s facilities. musicMr Thompson teacher. Apply for membership via our website: and I thank you all for a great evening’s – Assistant gardener entertainment. or from the theatre itself. Jess Jenner [email protected] Now,- Steve where Williams did I hide that Marmite...? • 07803For further 504 213 info, please contact the director, Thank you for your co-operation! : or 16 • 17 Review

November 2014 Jessica-Ann Jenner and Charis Anna Beyer in BLT’s November Variety production of Performance: Live!#2 Collaborators Got Problems - VPL message comes through on Facebook: when you can jeer at some – not a fire, but what to do in the cata “Thanks for agreeing to review on deluded incompetents you actually know? strophic event that your glass falls empty Saturday. The deadline for the review is …” It’ll be fine, I told myself, so long as there before the interval: “The bar’s open all Match Of The Day. I agreed to review a bar show? Curses! isn’t a performing dog. I was hoping there - night. The show gets better the more often VPL Bang goes might even be some competitive baking in you go.” He was right. A Variety the true spirit of British television in its dy Hit The Road Jack. Then the whole troupe swung in with an PerformanceI couldn’t even La-la-la remember what stands ing days, but all we got were Hula Hoops. for. JudgingThongs by the Ain’t content, What I Theyguessed Used To ensemble of What Be something or other. It’s I’d rather review the spirit of the evening, followed was a procession of sketches subtitled so Bohemiansorry, Howie, Rhapsody I’m not going to bang on and comic songs, culled from the likes , but we were denied any lingerie-based about your inspired acting out of the lyrics of Flanders & Swann, The Two Ronnies, evidence to draw our own conclusions. of , or Charis with your Rowan Atkinson and Fascinating Aida, impersonation of Flanders or possibly with a gratifying emphasis on obscenity The show, now in its second year, is based on Swann. Anyway, I can’t watch and take and infanticide. Even if it wasn’t all original, the premise that BLT members must have - notes at the same time. Or get to the bar. they at least had the good grace to update hidden talents. Some of them have tried some of the sketches, adding some relevant acting, but this was a chance to banishBritain’s those Wayne Sheridan did a passable impersona memories with an evening of music and tion of a compere, relaying the vital jokes and cutting any satirical references to comedy. So, why stay in and watch information about emergency procedures the Asquith government. Among the original material, Stevie Hughes Daves Armour and Jones are joined by Washboard and Alison Green did a lovely, self-penned Washbrook and guests for some serious skiffle. musical piece, with Ali on violin and Stevie Photo: Patrick Neylan blowing into an offcut pipe left behind by his builder. It reminded me of Friendliness- era Stackridge, and if that means nothing to you then where did you spend the 70s - or Saturday night for that matter? - Daniel was a new face at BLT. Part of his Wayne Sheridan, Grace Bishop, Helen Scott and David Scott-Lucas in Derren Brown-style act involved an audi BLT’s October production of RolePlay ence member selecting a staple gun and trying to staple his eyelid to his cornea – which was a trifle alarming as he’d tried a card trick on Hazal before the show and got hearts instead of diamonds. His act was hypnotic; I can’t tell you any more because he’d finished by the time I’d located my - clothes and got back from the park, just in time to see Pauline Armour and Fiona Cul len playing with sex toys – a short sketch - that came to a gratifyingly quick climax. Paul Baker (beard and all), was a glori ously shambolic Elvis and all the better for it, while Wayne Sheridan’s lip-synching of Pink was out-camped by guest Kyle Cluett with a grotesquely camp show-tune performed while wrapped in a bedsheet – a memory that will endure for many therapyRock sessions. Island The Line climax, if not quite the end, was a raucous rendition of skiffle classic with more Daves- on stage than the Tory party conference, some of them kidnapped from the audi ence, superbly led by Armour of that ilk. The whole evening was a cavalcade of nut-casery: brilliant, banal, crazy, cheesy, hackneyed, original, startling and louche. Sometimes all of them at the same time. We laughed likeMatch drains. Of The Day Oh, and as for , Chelsea won- Patrick again. Neylan I’m glad I missed it. • 18 19 Jane Buckland in BLT’s October production of RolePlay

Stevie Hughes and Tom Dignum in BLT’s November production of Collaborators

Sir Derek Jacobi cbe and BLT Playgoers’ member, Ruth Jarvis.

Photo: Dan Sands