The Harrogate Advertiser

You'll love to pick up this bout of Hay Fever

In it's third production of Noel Coward's Hay Fever since 1948, Harrogate Dramatic Society spreads its wings on a stage perfectly suite to this gilttering new revival.
Present in the audience on the first night were two founder members of HDS who have played their part in the Society's "love affair" with Noel Coward's work over the years and delighted many theatre-goers in the process. This production is bound to do like-wise.
Chintz panels and apricot tones set the scene at the Bliss family's country home, presented in such intimate detail, it begs the famous question - Who lives in a house like this?
Ruling the roost is Judith, a theatrical diva who finds life as a retired actress pretty dull. Comic sparks fly as she becomes the author of her own dramas, jumping in and out of flirtations and confrontations as often as she changes from elegant period lace to vivid satin wrap.
Judy Methven, as Judith, is a delight to watch and her comic timing allows Coward's wit full rein. The vocal "vamping" she employs at the piano and the imperious criticism of her guest's efforts in a party game are just two of the many fine moments in a well rounded performance.
Another experienced player, Derek Newton, invests husband David with a mild mannered exterior, only to bring forth a fire of rampant emotions ignited by femme fatale, Myra Arundel - and his wife's appetite for playing the wronged woman.
In an exceptionally strong cast two new HDS members shine. Tammie Romatowski delivers a credible picture of Sorel, the daughter who seems to have an insight into her dysfunctional family, ("we are a beastly family and I hate us" but gets swept up in the tide of shallow pretence all the same. And Kelly Nevett does a great job with the terrified Jackie Coryton, who ends up on the receiving end of an unwanted engagement.
In a production where all the main parts are played so well, it is easy to overlook the skill of the director in making it happen.
Hay fever needs to rattle along and first-night nerves would certainly show up any hair-line cracks in the pace. There were none here and Brian Foster deserves every congratulation for guiding the performances to this peak of achievement.
Mention should also be made of Shirley Grimshaw as the querulous retainer, Clara. In numerous long walks from kitchen to front door, she keeps up a priceless routine of silent complaint, head shaking and mouth working as she attempts to keep up with the minimal demands of four hapless house guests.
More amusement is supplied by Michael Garside as the precocious son, Simon, who behaves like a love-sick puppy at the drop of a hat and Alan Harwood, whose facial expressions spell confusion and bewilderment as Judith intentions take hold. Foppish Sandy Tyrell, played by Lawrence Conyers and the mournful maid Amy (Veronica Robson) complete the HDS members.
But there's another guest appearance - Noel Coward's crisp tones advising Mrs. Worthington against putting her daughter on the stage is a splendid addition to a shimmering entertainment.
Don't miss it.

Ruth Badley