Ten Times Table

Maskers Theatre Company

Nuffield Theatre, Southampton

I think it’s fair to say that this isn’t one of Ayckbourn’s finest. It lacks the intricacy of language and character that one expects; that said, its gentle humour is endearing, as the committee from hell (aren’t they all?) organise a pageant based on an obscure piece of village history.

Ray (Ken Hann) does his best to fairly chair the impossible personalities; the worst being his bigoted and vocal wife, Helen (Christine Baker), whose condescending and outrageous observations are deliciously cringe worthy. The side is supported by the supercilious deputy, Donald (Nick Longland) and the inebriated Lawrence (Philip de Grouchy) who gives a spirituous performance. The stand out performance comes from Audrey (John Souter), Donald’s aging mother, with few lines but always in character and a joy to watch. The first half drags at times but proceedings pick up in the second act as Captain Barton (Peter Ward) bursts onto the stage. The play is enhanced by a static but decent set and some well thought out props and costumes.

Rebecca Case