REVIEW: THE THWARTING OF BARON BOLLIGREW

Lymington Players

The Malt Theatre, Lymington

SIR Oblong Fitz Oblong (Bruce McIntosh) is an unlikely knight-errant to be sent on a one-man mission to tackle the issues marring the Island of Bolligrew, including a ruined church, a corrupt court and a red-eyed dragon, but he rose admirably to the occasion, as did the large creative team, who fashioned the most imaginative and sumptuous costumes, set and props, complemented by hair and make-up.

McIntosh made a noble adversary, with the right ratio of bumble to valour, thwarting the dastardly plans of the Baron (Chris Davis), Squire Blackheart (John Painter) and cunning Dr Moloch (Tess Kazim). The story was easy to follow but was held together beautifully by the narrator (Ruth Almodal), who integrated into the story.

This is not a pantomime, but with jokes and audience participation, it would have benefited from more audience support. In spite of the poor turn-out, the cast were animated, led by the energetic Duke (Robin Greenfield) as they switched characters, costumes and scenes.

Good family fun.

Rebecca Case