After the success of our productions of ‘Allo ‘Allo and Are
You Being Served? we've again turned to the world of TV sitcom with a
presentation of The Vicar of Dibley.
This is a stage stage adaptation of three episodes from the
very popular comedy series written by Richard Curtis.
The show features all the well-loved characters of this
remarkable village - the autocratic David Horton, his bumbling son Hugo, the
fussy Frank Pickle, the earthy Owen Newitt, and no-no-no-yes Jim Trott; the
ever-so-slightly dotty Alice Tinker, the unusual cook Mrs Cropley and of course
Dibley’s first lady Vicar, Geraldine Granger.
Stepping into the redoubtable shoes of Dawn French in that
role is Sue Elliott (pictured right), a well-known and versatile comic actress
whom Gasleak are delighted to welcome back to join the other experienced members
of the cast of this hilarious production.
Geraldine takes up her appointment, much to the consternation
of some and the bemusement of others. Despite David’s attempt to have her
removed, the other members of the Parish Council agree to give her a chance by
conducting a service - which of course turns out to be a roaring success!
Geraldine decides to liven up the village by running its very
own radio station for a week. In his late-night spot, Frank reveals some
surprising personal details. In the climax to the week, Alice bravely challenges
her future father-in-law to a general knowledge quiz, and receives some slight
assistance from the “unbiased”questionmistress!
And the third episode? Well, you'll have to come along and
find out!
While of course the series was very successful on television,
there is no doubt that
nothing can beat the magic of theatre, and revisiting Dibley on the live stage
will give it a new dimension and provide a hugely entertaining and enjoyable
night out.
The Vicar of Dibley runs at Melton Theatre from March 3rd
to 6th at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on the 6th.
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