Move Over Mrs Markham (1984)

Saucy and Sparkling

Saucy, sparkling and hilariously fun - that was 'Move over, Mrs. Markham', the comedy by Ray Cooney and John Chapman, which was presented by Wythall Dramatic Society last week.

This ambitious amateur company has 25 years of successful productions behind it but never has it shown itself to better advantage or scored a more resounding triumph.

The first laugh came only seconds after curtain-up and for the next two hours members of the audience were literally "rolling in their seats".

Throughout a mad, matrimonial tangle the players breezed on and off the stage with an expertise worthy of any professionals.

Their timing (so important in farce) was faultless and each character was portrayed to perfection.

Honours must be shared equally between all members of the cast but it would be unfair not to make special mention of two leading artistes - Angela Smith who handled the long and demanding role of Mrs. Markham brilliantly and Peter Webber as the amorous, 'trouser-dropping' Alistair Spenlow to whom it can only be said 'Brian Rix would have been proud of you!'

Directed by Gerry Solomon, the play provided first-rate entertainment, superbly presented in the highest tradition of stage comedy.

Unknown, Local Newspaper 1984