When We Are Married, Churchill Productions, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
J B PRIESTLEY'S 1938 play has stood the test of time well, and the issues with which it deals are as relevant today as they were seventy-odd years ago.
It is set around 1910 in the West Riding of Yorkshire, where three couples, all pillars of the community, are celebrating their silver weddings - but something unexpected causes each of them to question just what the past 25 years have meant to them This outstanding production scores immediately with glorious costumes, set and props, which immediately suggest Edwardian England.
And there are some real gems of characterisation among the 15-strong cast, perhaps none more so than Roger Lamb as photographer Henry Ormonroyd.
He rightly drew loud applause for his wonderful portrayal of a mind totally befuddled by drink.
And Elizabeth Allen, as precocious maid Ruby Birtle, is a young lady who shows tremendous promise.
Well-balanced performances also come from those playing the three couples - Mark Ritchie and Sammy Boyle (Alderman & Maria Helliwell), Charles Upton & Jan Wyld (Councillor & Annie Parker) and Graham Haigh & Jenny Munford (Herbert & Clara Soppitt).
Congratulations too to all for keeping up those Yorkshire accents so well.
By 'eck, they're good.
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