Review: Theft at Robin Hood Theatre, Averham

Perfect tribute is paid to their late patron, Eric Chappell, by Robin Hood Theatre Company in their latest production.

Theft, being staged at the Robin Hood Theatre, Averham, until Saturday, combines fine acting and staging with Chappell’s genius for comedy drama.

A critical part of any production is the script and the immense talent of Chappell, who died earlier this year, is obvious. The clever writing, the laugh-out-loud comedy and the twists and turns of the plot make for an immensely enjoyable evening of entertainment.

But equally important are the cast and the five actors play their parts perfectly. Jonty Redgate is wealthy businessman John Miles and Caroline Knight his wife, Barbara. When they return from a night out with friends Trevor (Tony Smith) and Jenny (Caroline Hall) they discover their house has been burgled.

Worst still, it seems the burglar is still in the house.

Mark Lebeter is Spriggs, a man with gift-of-the gab — and an unnerving knowledge of the secrets of those who disturbed his crime. He played the part with plenty of comedy without going over the top — which would be easy to do — while the others were utterly believable as their lives start to the unravel.

Directed by Jean Baliol-Key, it is well worth a watch. The company said they wanted to create a special tribute to their patron, and they have done just that. — SH