The Valley Troupers Northleigh
Formed in 1992, The Valley Troupers have staged a wide variety of productions at Northleigh's Village Hall. A one-night entertainment at the Harvest supper that year has grown into a regular annual production. We are always looking for members, so if you are interested in acting or helping behind the scenes, do get in touch. Rehearsals at Northleigh's village hall usually start at 7.45pm each Thursday evening from mid September until performance dates in late March or early April. Ask any member of the Troupers for details of the current production.
Tons of Money
Contact Email: Troupers@gmx.com
NORTHLEIGH Village Hall resounded with explosions of laughter as well as loud bangs during the three performances of Tons of Money performed by the Valley Troupers last week.
The farce by Will Evans and Valentine, adapted by Alan Ayckbourne, relied on perfect timing and was both cleverly and artistically directed by Nigel Carnelly.
The superb set, an orangery attached to an opulent mansion, was conceived by Nigel Carnelly and designed and constructed by Tim Bucknall.
Angela Findlay and Andy Bricknall excellently portrayed Mr and Mrs Allington, the owners of the residence who arc suffering a severe financial crisis due to living way beyond their means.
Their difficulties are increased by their deaf aunt, Miss Mullett, whose insight into human behaviour and acid remarks were delightfully delivered by Amanda Furnival.
Tara Huffman was the coquettish parlour maid, Miss Simpson, Mike Faraday played Mr Sprules, the aloof but crafty butler, Giles, the doltish gardener, was played by newcomer Stephane Laurence.
The house guest, Miss Everard, well played by Sue Child, turns out to be married, but her poor memory of her husband's kiss adds to the plot. Mark Watts was the sombre solicitor, Mr Chesterman, who brings good news of a bequest and becomes quite involved in the antics that unfold when, after the supposed death of Mr Allington, not only the real cousin George (a good performance by Tim Bucknall) turns up to inherit the money, but two others as well. Sprule's brother 'Henery' is one of the impostors and Graham Cole played the role convincingly. Thanks are also due to Myrtle Wild's efforts in procuring two identical suits and affixing similar beards.
The fighting and chasing had the audience in fits of laughter and the witticisms were well delivered. The hall was full for the Friday and Saturday performances and apparently the Troupers have already been approached for tickets for their next play in March 1998 - so book early.