Marlborough Dramatic Club Ten Times Table
Director- Graham Poulteney
Performed at the Brentwood School Memorial Hall on Friday 25th October 2024
In the Marlborough Dramatic Club’s 120th anniversary year, I was delighted to attend their production of Ten Times Table, an Alan Ayckbourn play that brings humor and chaos to a seemingly simple setting. As someone new to Ayckbourn’s work, with a background more rooted in musical theatre than in dramatic plays, I went in with no expectations, curious to see what the evening would bring. The result was a charmingly unpredictable evening filled with memorable performances.
The production's minimalistic set perfectly captured the atmosphere of a small-town hotel function room, the setting for the entirety of the play. It effectively conveyed the space. I enjoyed the use of the theatre’s entrances and exits, with actors entering and exiting from the back and sides of the auditorium, creating an immersive experience that gave the space an almost interactive quality.
Colin Richardson’s portrayal of Ray, the committee’s earnest yet beleaguered chairman, stood out for its authenticity. He delivered a strong, convincing performance that grounded the play, serving as the steady center in a cast of increasingly eccentric characters. Juliette Birds’ portrayal of his wife, Helen, was a delightful counterbalance. Her character reminded me of Hyacinth Bucket from Keeping Up Appearances—perennially pompous and utterly self-assured, a blend that made her a joy to loathe. Juliette mastered this balance with subtlety and flair, embodying the character’s self-importance in a way that kept the audience both entertained and engaged.
Roy Hobson brought warmth to his role as Donald, complemented by the hilarious portrayal of his slightly deaf, charmingly clueless mother, Audrey, played by June Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald’s comedic timing was flawless adding a layer of well-executed comedy to her character. She was not only a scene-stealer as Audrey but also contributed impressively to the costumes for the show, lending a cohesive feel to the production.
Andrew Chesney’s Eric was an unpleasantly arrogant and chauvinistic character, portrayed convincingly with an unwavering confidence that made his detestable persona all the more striking. Somehow, Eric manages to juggle both a live-in partner, Phillipa, and a “girl on the side,” Sophie, each of whom brings a contrasting energy to his character. Sophie, played by Louise Richardson, embodies a quiet and compliant presence, while Phillipa, brought to life by Josie Bruty, projected a perfectly modulated whisper that carried beautifully even without a microphone. Bruty’s ability to project subtly was impressive, and her character became a hidden gem in the production, adding a subtle yet effective touch of comedy.
Alan Thorley’s Lawrence evolved brilliantly throughout the play, truly hitting his stride in Act 2. His portrayal of drunkenness was both convincing and hilarious.
Patrick Stevens’ portrayal of Tim was a delightful mix of calm and unexpected fervour. His transformation contributed brilliantly to the escalating comedy and Graham Nash as Max Kirkov, rounded off the ensemble nicely.
While Act 1 initially left me a bit puzzled, with its series of committee meetings the payoff came in Act 2. I found the dialogue occasionally hard to follow, partly due to its upstage direction, but the plot eventually clicked into place. The chaotic, frenzied energy of Act 2 made it clear why Ayckbourn is so well-loved for his skillful building of tension and absurdity. Learning that this crescendo of comedic confusion is emblematic of Ayckbourn’s style gave me a greater appreciation for the pacing and made me reconsider the subtleties of Act 1 in retrospect.
One of the highlights of the production was the ensemble’s cohesive and believable acting. Marlborough Dramatic Club’s cast displayed both versatility and skill, embodying Ayckbourn’s complex characters with ease. The comedy, while occasionally subtle, was expertly timed, and the absurdity that bubbled up in Act 2 delivered the laughs that had been gently simmering in the background from the start.
Ten Times Table may initially present itself as a straightforward farce, but it develops into a humorous study of small-town politics, petty grievances, and personal insecurities, brought vividly to life by a talented ensemble cast. The Marlborough Dramatic Club has once again showcased its ability to create engaging theatre, proving why they have been a staple of the local arts scene for 120 years.
Natalie Hills
District 10
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