Altrincham Garrick Playhouse’s The Vicar of Dibley transported audiences back to the quirky charm of the beloved TV series, delivering an evening of uproarious laughter and heartwarming moments. Directed by Pete Brassington, the production showcased the talents of a remarkable cast of amateur performers who breathed new life into the iconic characters.
Meg Brassington shone as the irrepressible Geraldine Granger, infusing the role with wit, warmth, and a touch of sass. Opposite her, Hugh Everett embodied the pompous yet endearing David Horton, while Dan Ellis captured the bumbling charm of Hugo Horton. Helen Swain charmed as the sweet-natured but somewhat dim-witted Alice Tinker, eliciting plenty of laughs with her comedic timing.
Christine Perry brought Letitia Cropley to life with delightful eccentricity, and Ivor Farley had the audience in stitches with his portrayal of the lovably lecherous Jim Trott. Bill Platt rounded out the ensemble with his portrayal of the ever-bumbling Frank Pickle. Additionally, the inclusion of talented children in the production added to its charm and authenticity, showcasing a promising future generation of performers at the Garrick.
Under Brassington’s direction, the production flowed seamlessly, with slick transitions and well-executed comedic moments. The set design effectively captured the quaint English village atmosphere of Dibley, immersing the audience in its idyllic surroundings.
It’s a match made in heaven, with Altrincham Garrick Playhouse’s high production value along with Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer’s sharp wit and hilarious dialogue eliciting non-stop laughter from start to finish. Each punchline was delivered with precision, earning hearty laughs from the audience and ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable experience for fans of the original series as well as newcomers alike.
Overall, Altrincham Garrick Playhouse’s production of The Vicar of Dibley was a resounding success, thanks to its talented cast, slick production values, and uproarious script. With its blend of humour and heart, it captured the essence of the beloved TV series while also standing as a delightful theatrical experience in its own right.
Playing until 2nd March, https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/whats-on
Reviewer: Max Eden
Reviewed: 26th February 2024
North West End UK Rating: