Outside Edge First XI (Cast List)

4th - 6th May 2000

Miriam - Linda Rawley,  Roger (Capt) - Ginge Anderson,  Dennis - Stuart Everett,

Maggie - Debbie Ellis,  Bob - Steven Smailes,  Kevin - Robert Spolander,

Ginnie - Deborah Seeley,  Alex - David Seeley,  Sharon - Debbie Day.

Director - David Murphy

The Chameleons are affiliated to NODA (the National Operatic and Dramatic Association) and this is their representatives independent Critique.
 
 

SOCIETY:  The Chameleons Amateur Dramatic Society.

PRODUCTION: “Outside Edge”

DATE:  5/5/00

VENUE:  Kingsland Hall, Wembley

REPORT BY: Vic Golding
 

“Outside Edge”, by Richard Harris, is an extremely funny play.  It strikes a familiar chord with anyone who has ever tried to organise any voluntary event.  In this case, the event is a cricket match, and the Chameleons did the play proud, under the directorship of David Murphy.

There was a brilliant set (from David Murphy & Stuart Everett) of a cricket pavilion, complete with white sight screen, a ‘hedge’ and benches ‘outside’.  The only problem with the benches was that their backs hid some of the action going on behind, and this was compounded when ‘Ginnie’ set her collapsible seat down centre for the rest of the play.

John Jetton’s clever lighting & sound added to the atmosphere, and there were some very appropriate props, (sporting & refreshment wise!), from Simon Crowley, plus a well-set-out programme from Jeremy Spolander.

As Miriam, Linda Rawley gave a stunningly accurate performance of what one imagined the ‘Captain’s’ wife should be.  Efficient, hardworking and loyal, but only until the worm turns!  Similarly, Ginge Anderson, as the harassed Roger, insensitive to everything but the cricket match in hand, was impeccable.

Stephen Smails, as Bob, gave a very good portrayal of this embittered and deceitful man.

Dennis, there’s one like him in every club, was splendidly played by Stuart Everett.

The ebullient Maggie was marvellously brought to life by Debbie Ellis, who really looked as if she could heft a hod of bricks!

Her ‘Kevin’, (Robert Spolander) brought across his character very well, though he could hardly be termed ‘little’!

The suspicious and indolent Ginnie was well-characterised by Deborah Seeley, though she needed to project her voice much more.

The despicable and arrogant Alex was played against type by the gently spoken, laid-back David Seeley, and, as his ‘pick-up’ Sharon, Debbie Day made the most of her opportunities, and really seemed to enjoy bashing Alex with her parasol!

Thank you for your kind invitation to a comedy which really came to life with the enthusiasm shown by everyone on stage, and which we, and I’m sure the rest of the audience, thoroughly enjoyed.  Also, many thanks for your warm hospitality, which was much appreciated.