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GYM and TONIC
All Saints Dramatic Society
De La Salle Theatre
Southbourne
Bournemouth
June 2003

NEVER having visited a health hydro, I have no idea how true-to-life the scenario is in this bitter-sweet John Godber comedy – but suffice to say that if I had made plans to take a break there I would now be having second thoughts.
The action takes place over a week at Scardale Hall, somewhere in the heart of England, where the ‘residents’ appear to pay out mega bucks not only for various treatments but for the privilege of being insulted by their fellow guests and half-starved into the bargain. It is hilarious, although the comedy is tempered by the characters’ often morbid reflections on life.
Lesley Lock’s lovely production jogs along well at a steady pace, aided by some top-notch performances. Martyn French is a manic delight as Don Weston, a man suffering a mid-life crisis with a vengeance, Victoria Kasar is equally accomplished as his long-suffering wife, Shirley, and Laurie Patey is highly believable as the sickeningly fit, teetotal Ken.
But my gold star goes to Sheila Clapcott for an amazingly detailed performance as forthright multi-millionairess Gertrude Tate – an absolute joy.
Supporting performances are also first-class, and full marks too for excellent lighting, splendid props and impressively speedy scene changes.

Linda Kirkman
Courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo.
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