Sutton Arts Theatre Bring Hilarity In Abundance With Noises Off

Sutton Arts Theatre bring hilarity in abundance as they present Michael Frayn’s Noises Off until 12 September.

Set over three acts, the audience are taken on an exhausting journey as cast and crew relationships unravel during a tour of their silly comic play, Nothing On.

Brimming with physical comedy, it is no mean feat for an amateur theatre group to take on this play and Sutton Arts Theatre triumphed. Brilliantly cast, every single actor relished their roles and delivered an impressive production.

Leading the way was Denise Phillips as Mrs Clackett/Dotty. From her very first entrance there was already ripples of laughter through the audience and by the end there were howls of laughter. Her performance was utterly compelling. Patrick Richmond-Ward was equally excellent as the hapless director, Lloyd Dallas, whose sonorous voice perfectly fitted the role.

Dexter Whitehead and Emily Armstrong played Roger/Garry and Vicki/Brooke respectively. Armstrong took on the challenge of being in the play, as well as directing, both roles that she has clearly embraced. There was much hilarity within the scenes involving her contact lens and the mysterious appearing and disappearing bag. Meanwhile, Whitehead probably had the most tiring challenges of the evening, from falling down stairs, jumping up on staging and running around the set, it’s a wonder he made it to the end of the show!

Ian Cornock hilariously took on the roles of Philip/Frederick/Sheikh, with a particular highlight concerning numerous bed sheets, whilst Alison Daly shone in the role of Flavia/Belinda. Always trying to placate the various characters, Daly’s performance was both amusing and endearing.

Special mentions to the remaining cast, which included stage manager Poppy, played by Louise Farmer, Tim, the other stage-hand, played by Len Schofield and Selsdon, an actor with a drinking problem, played by Barry Atchison.

The cast excelled in their individual roles, against a spectacularly built set, designed by John Isplip, Jeff Darlow and Mark Nattrass. Noises Off has to be one of my favourite farces and Sutton Arts Theatre have done it absolute justice. If you’re after a night of rib-tickling comedy, this is the place to go. Must end 12 September.