Reviewed by Janice Bailey
November 2014
It is always a pleasure to attend Noarlunga Theatre Company’s productions – for the warm welcome all patrons receive and because you know you are going to get sheer entertainment -and in the case of the latest production ‘Allo ‘Allo, a lot of laughs. Myles Leon, a first-time director for NTC has put together a large cast of varying experience to bring the much beloved characters of Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft’s British television series to life.
Credit must go to Myles and his team of helpers for a cleverly constructed set which moves to reveal unlikely entrances and exits, with Café Rene as the central feature. The audience has been divided into 2 sections, with tables at the front which extend the café and two bleachers at the rear.
The cast are clearly having a great time and this of course transfers to the audience. James Barbary as Rene and Linda Lawson as his long-suffering wife, Edith, lead the cast through this entertaining romp with strong performances, as Rene tries to keep the Germans from finding the painting of the ‘Madonna with the Big Boobies’. This is a true ensemble cast with so many ‘moments’ and each cast member giving a first-rate performance. This is a testament to strong direction.
Do yourself a favour – as I will say this once and only once – take a trip to Port Noarlunga – and visit with all the beloved characters of Allo Allo. Performances are 28th and 29th November at 8.00 with a matinee on Saturday.
