A brilliantly directed (Paul Arends) comedy caper of family fun set in the middle ages, a band of outlandish and peculiar players, down on their luck and needing a break, happen upon a seemingly remarkable opportunity from the dithery and doddery Lord Mollymop (Zoran Blackie) and his overly controlling Queen Lady Dottie (Samra Uddin), to perform for one King Stanley (Carl Latham). How could they resist!
Off the group set on their treacherous journey only to discover all is not what it seems…
Their journey is coloured with a variety of characters they acquire on the way, whilst also in search of a replacement for their obnoxiously dramatic Lady Gwen (Chrysanthi Fergani). They meet the trickster Meg (Meredith Clayton) who isn’t what she seems. The enigmatic and bold Bud (Daisy Jobbins) and a brilliant supporting cast of performers and knights from Sir Smallpart (Alex Harrison, who may I add despite the small part, played it superbly with fantastic characterisation), Recklessly Foolish (Natalie Pearce) to the Magnificent Rosalie (Shaun Greatbanks).
Throw in the intellectual but wimpy Prince Pinky (Aslan Herzen) and a snotty but well designed gimongous dragon (Gemma Hurst) and you have one amazing night of entertainment.
Special mention to the main band of characters from the lovable but dopey Grub (Kyle Jensen), clueless ringmaster Morton (Connor Jones), lovable Folly (Esmée Benjamin) ), the only stable one of the group, (who they very much needed as a voice of reason at times) Roland (Zoe Marras) and the very funny Lady Gwen. This wonderful dynamic of characters carried the show well. I thoughrally enjoyed every part of your performances.
The lighting and sound effects (Tim Saint and Megg Doherty) added to the comedy timing and atmosphere of the staging beautifully. Mix in wonderfully detailed and designed costumes (Carol Golightly) which fit each character and time period perfectly and a simple yet effective set and staging (Hayley Jeffrey, Catherine Flower and Ray Ormsby) and you’re in for a real treat.
Don’t be thinking this is just a kids show though, there are jokes to suit all ages. It really is a show for everyone.
Thank you for a wonderful evening, it’s always a pleasure to see this company perform as they have a wonderful array of talent and their passion shines through.
A Play About a Dragon, runs until 5th July 2025 at Thingwall Community Hall.
Reviewer: Stephanie Wiswall
Reviewed: 3rd July 2025
North West End UK Rating: