Derby

Reviews

Jekyll and Hyde 1 October 2022
Fascinating and well performed. Several of us wanted to read the book.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel at Nottingham Theatre Royal on Saturday 11 February 2023 was good fun and full of stars such as Rula Lenska, Hayley Mills and Paul Nicholas. Travel by Red Arrow was delayed but we'd allowed enough time to arrive in time for tea or wine. Stalls will be better next time. The steps are ridiculous in the upper circle for u3a groups. I'm learning 😊

The Time Machine at Derby Theatre was fast paced and full of quick changes of costume, characters and eras. The first act established the difficulty of changing the course of history by time travel. Some preferred the second act which included on stage wine and pizza ( a chance for audience participation) and a bit of dance.

Steel Magnolias at Theatre Royal Nottingham on 13 April 2023 gave the impression of a gossipy hairdresser's salon. As usual there was a serious issue involving the youngest 'customer'. The play's author had a sister who was diabetic and this character was based on her. Dialysis and the reaction to death were also important aspects of the play.

The Verdict at Derby Theatre on 24 June 2023 was enjoyed by a small group of members. It was an excellent drama with a large cast, some great sound effects, and we wanted the washed up attorney to win the medical negligence case. He did but not without the other side trying everything to cause his failure. Witnesses disappeared, someone who befriended him was secretly working for the medical team's lawyer.

The Mousetrap 70th Anniversary at Derby Theatre on 19 July was enjoyed by all of us. Very enjoyable with plenty of red herrings. Todd Carthy from Grange Hill all those years ago had an interesting role. I can't say more otherwise it would give the plot away.

Brassed Off at Derby Theatre on 30 September was enjoyed by a large group. Mines closing, hardships and the pleasures of playing in the pit band despite not being able to pay the subs had most of us reaching for the tissues. Standing ovation.

Woman in Black 2 December 2023. A very small group braved cold weather. Mark James was Arthur Kipps and Mark Hawkins as The Actor. Various roles were enacted by the use of a change of coat or hats. Plenty of sound effects and gradual revelations of the set and interesting use of lighting.

Noises Off 31 January 2024. Very funny play within a play by Michael Frayn. Excellent cast and set.

Animal Farm 9 March 2024 a group of 16 enjoyed a memorable stage production of Orwell's take on the perils of socialism. Included songs.