amdram.co.uk

I have just read three plays in quick succession from New Theatre Publications written by Ian Hornby. All three are farce, not necessarily my favourite genre and probably not something I would normally read. However, I like to think that I can see past my own prejudices and review a play on its own merits.

The Ex Factor F4 M3

You and your future wife are struggling to open your bed and breakfast. The inspector is expected, but in this case she is your ex-wife and the two women don’t exactly see eye-to-eye. Couple that with rumours that the ex’s current beau used to be a Chippendale and your confidence isn’t exactly high. Then add to this the arrival of your first official guests – two matronly women and you know this is not a good time in your life. And to make matters worse, the bed and breakfast isn’t quite finished and the rising wind is threatening to blow the roof off the barn.

The writing of this typical farce is tight and the pace fast. Groups with experience of producing previous farces should have no problems whatsoever. To me it was reminiscent of Fawlty Towers – not a bad thing.

Conference Pairs F5 M2

Every year JW Roberts Ltd hold their conference in the same hotel. And each year, according to the staff of the hotel, the antics of the company’s employees get worse. Several office romances are started or rekindled at the conference, but all involved intend to return home and continue with their normal every day lives. Peter and Eve are one such couple, but it seems that everything is conspiring against them ever getting together. Events include fire alarms, lost keys, difficult hotel staff and handcuffs are some such events.

Timing in this play is crucial, I can really see there being problems if this play is not rehearsed sufficiently. That being said, with a good director and conscientious actors it will be a real winner with farce loving audiences. Be warned that one of the actresses needs to spend most of her time on stage in just her underwear!

Hello, Is There Any Body There? F4 M4

Lady Amelia Simpson-Squire is a successful author. She and her husband are trying to think of new ways of murdering unsuspecting victims for her next book. Family friend Freddy is roped in to help. Meanwhile the hapless Vic Tim arrives and is promptly dispatched by an unknown assailant. One of the main problems for the actors now is how to get the body off stage without the audience noticing as the actor is required to re-appear as a different character. The the requisite butler and maid as well as an appearance from Miss Marbles herself.

This was my favourite of the three. I love the acknowledgement and involvement of the audience giving it a subtle panto feel. It also reminded me of the Farndale plays, so if you loved them, you will love this one.

All these plays are excellently written and aimed at the amateur market. Sets are “doable” and I can see all three being very popular. They are farce in every sense of the word.

All three plays are available from New Theatre Publications. Visit their website for details of these plays and many others by both Ian and other playwrights.