By Jeeves!!!

I made it along to Roleystone for the final night of the season last Saturday. Foolishly, I had omitted to book and was most fortunate in securing literally the last seat in the house. I am very glad I did so. The story of the evolution of this show (book and lyrics by Alan Ayckbourn, music by Andrew Lloyd Webber) is set out in the program. Apparently, it very nearly did not see daylight at all and was a monumental flop on Broadway in 2001. Judging by this production, I find that hard to believe. The play itself is about the exploits of upper-class twit Bertie Wooster and chums, plus of course his valet and guardian angel, Jeeves - characters created by the late PG Wodehouse. The narrative is largely based on one particular novel, 'The Code of the Woosters' with a bit of poetic licence on the part of AA, and of course songs and dances thrown in for good measure. This show simply sparkled with humour, pace, energy and talent from beginning to end. The performers were all apparently multi-skilled and the music was played LIVE by (alas) a concealed trio of piano, keyboard and flute. The very quirkiness of set and props added yet another dimension to the hilarity of the piece. Well done, all. I perused my copy of the program closely for some clues as to where all these talented young performers had come from and where they may pop up next, but there were no biographic details provided whatsoever. For the benefit of those of us who like to keep track of such things, perhaps someone out there could oblige by adding some such details by way of comment hereon?

I also was at the closing night of Jeeves. It was one of the most enjoyeable evenings I have spent at the theatre for ages. I was totally lost in the show. All of the performances were solid and the cast looked like they were having an absolute blast.While some of the characters were a little over the top, Kim Martin as Jeeves was beautifully understated and the calming influence required by Tim How as Bertie. He must of been exhausted after the run. The music was well executed and the start i didn't realise it was live. Pig! was my favourite. And it was good to finally see Paul Treasure doing Morris Dancing on stage :o) The set was well used I loved the Car. Many of the cast members are long standing Roleystone members. (I'm sorry I don't have my program with me at work so i can't remember all the characters names): Paul Treasure, Bree Hartley, Rory Cornelius, Jason Grimma, Nicole (?) and Callum Presbury were all last seen in Once Upon A Mattress at Roleystone in July this year. Paul - will be directing Cabaret at Kwinana mid year and The Sound of Music at the end of next year at Roleystone. Tim How - was last seen as Estonia & Sweden in Eurobeat at Playlovers. Not sure what his next project is. David Wallace - was last seen as Russia and UK in Eurobeat. Not sure what his next project is. Priscilla Busher - has now taken the step across the table and directed Agnes for the one act festival this year and will be directing The Mystery Of Edwin Drood mid year next year. Kim Martin - is a long standing member. He directed The Club earlier this year. Sarah Costick - First time at Roleystone, I have seen her previously at Kwinana in their end of year show 2006. Not sure about next project either. Hope this helps a little :o) Again fantastic job by all. Kristen

Jeeves Cast

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