Errol Flynn - The Wash-up

The President's column in Harbour Theatre's latest newsletter says: "Never let it be said that Harbour Theatre is afraid to try something new. Errol Flynn’s Great Big Adventure Book for Boys had everything - music, songs, plenty of laughs and above all an enthusiastic, dedicated and talented cast of actors and musicians who combined, brought our audiences a truly entertaining theatre experience. Judging by the smiles and the great comments as people left the theatre it was a night thoroughly enjoyed by all. Thanks to Norma Holmes and Dave Hale who composed all the original music for the show and the musicians Enzo Piscitelli (drums), Geoff Stainton (bass guitar) and Peter Nettleton (guitar). Every night the dressing room was always buzzing with laughter and chatter from the cast and many long lasting friendships have been made during the run. This is what makes community theatre so much fun! Director Peter Nettleton had the unenviable task of directing, playing some of the music and appearing in the show – no mean feat. Well done Peter!" As I said in my speech at the wrap party on Saturday night 26/07/08, it was a real shame that we didn't finally cast this show until some 2 weeks into the rehearsal period, causing Harbour to cut down the season dates and me to panic slightly and slot myself into some six seemingly small character roles. Thank God for Tony and Catherine or I may have ended up taking on the lead roles as well! Of my three tiers of involvement in the show, that was the one which I took most for granted and hence work on it was left until the last minute. As history will record, it was not such a good idea and I definitely will not try to tackle so much myself in one show ever again. One may have gotten away with a slew of ad libs back in uni revue days, but community theatre critics brook no such abstractedness. Mea Culpa. I would like to pay a special tribute to our talented and gorgeous multi-character actors:- John ("Jack") Forde, Kirstie Chorley, John Deasy and Sherrilee Walsh. All you other directors out there - watch out for these people. Scene-stealers one and all! Also, Matt Cuccovia (usually a power behind the scenes) did so well in his first on-stage roles as various bartenders. Go, Matteo! As for me - I'm now in rehearsal for 'A Laughing Matter' with Grads. Just two characters this time - and a firm directorial hand to keep me in line! Chookas, m'dears!