Review by Sue Dupont (NODA)

A large cast play offering a wide range of characters and age spread with a chance to develop some good cameo realisations.
The Atkinsons playing the Angkatells had the rapport of husband and wife and the superior family domestic feel of a country house party for family and friends; she was a wonderful ‘forgetter and absent minded’ hostess with thoughts and plans on several fronts.
Amongst the cousins, Henrietta (Leanne Neave) as the sculptress and mistress maintained her large role with credibility; little Midge Harvey (Polly Fenn) had the uncertainty and lack of confidence of the poor relation but fought bravely for what she wanted; and Edward (Paul Goldsmith) really was the rather boring but stable and predictable man who had inherited the family house but was uncertain which way to follow.
The guests of the weekend the Cristows (played by the Carpenters) gave excellent character studies, he with his horror of discovery for his previous and current mistresses and the support of a seemingly neurotic wife, and Heather as the wife Gerda building the character into more devious strands and supposed devastation and hysterics, the unveiling at the end almost disguised as we felt sympathy towards what had seemed her role.
The actress Veronica Craye very attractive and self possessed, but could have been even more OTT in this role.
And the solid presence of the police, Inspector Colquhoun and Detective Sergeant Carter (Kevin Oelrichs and Pete Harrold) unravelled the machinations of the plot with aplomb.
And all (cast and audience) appreciated the presence and hidden wry humour of Gudgeon (Bob McClenning), and the Butler did not do the murder!

Performed at Wymondham Central Hall
13th - 16th April 2011

Cast:

Henrietta Angkatell - Leanne Neave
Sir Henry Angkatell, K.C.B. – David Atkinson
Lady Angkatell – Rowena Atkinson
Midge Harvey - Polly Fenn
Gudgeon – Bob McClenning
Edward Angkatell – Paul Goldsmith
Doris - Marianne London
Gerda Cristow - Heather Carpenter
John Cristow, M.D., F.R.C.P. - Alan Carpenter
Veronica Craye – Emma Lindsey
Inspector Colquhoun, C.I.D. – Kevin Oelrichs
Detective Sergeant Carter - Pete Harrold

Director and Producer: Amanda Oelrichs