Spellbound by dramatisation of murder trial

"Even before the "play proper" began, the presence of newspaper boys in the auditorium, handing out copies of this very newspaper's coverage of the Rattenbury trial, indicated a production in which no stone had been left unturned.

And so it proved, with every detail of the 1935 period highlighted in costumes, shoes, wigs, makeup and props, and a marvellous multi-purpose set to boot.

Terence Rattigan's play based on the true story of the trial of George Wood and Alma Rattenbury for the Bournemouth murder of her husband, francis, had an extra meaning because of the local connection - but this production, excellently directed by Tony H, held the entire audience spellbound with the sincerity of its performances.

Rosemary S as Alma brought out every facet of her character's complex personality while Tim Spall lookalike and newcomer Matthew N made a very favourable impression as her lover, George Wood.

But every member of this 19-stong cast gets my vote for making such an impact with this moving, powerful production."

Well...

That's a good review and I should be rightly proud. I am, I think we -did- put on a very good show. Nice to have my performance complimented but... Tim Spall? TIM SPALL?! For those that don't know Timothy Spall is a rotund British character actor who pops up pretty much everywhere. He's in the next Harry Potter. An excellent actor and it's a compliment to be compared to him, but a terribly backhanded one to suggest that I -look- like him.

Unfortunately... I probably do at the moment.

Judge for yourselves...