Cash on Delivery

Reporter: Colin Meredith
Date online: 12/06/2008

This Michael Cooney farce has all the ingredients for a rip-roaring, gut-busting evening and that is just what is provided by the MAD cast in this excellent production.

The convoluted story line centres around Eric Swan, played with conniving conviction by Jon Comyn-Platt. We discover that he has been systematically fleecing the DSS for two years by employing every trick in the book. But when Mr Jenkins arrives one morning to check over some details, mayhem breaks out in more ways than one! Brian Howarth's portrayal was excellent throughout as we saw his character become bemused, confused, drunk and finally struck by lightning. This was very much an ensemble production and director Dave Fielding¹s strong cast did not have a weak link anywhere. The cast ensures that everything moves at a cracking pace and every situation is exploited to its maximum potential.

There are some excellent performances in what is a very complex plot, but they had the audience gripped with laughter from start to finish. Like all good farces the plot is crucial, so just when we thought things were under control Ms Cowper from the DSS arrives on the scene only to be mistaken for Norman in drag. The subsequent fondling scene brought the house down and Jane Jeffery handled the scene with great timing.

Tracy Wood, Geoff Williams,Tony McDonagh, Zoë Howarth, Bernie Culshaw, Pauline Brett and Kathleen Stone also make their presence felt in this thoroughly enjoyable farce, which is certainly worth catching if you can make it. A special mention must to go to the backstage crew who provided an excellent set and effects which helped make for a memorable evenings entertainment.

Cash on Delivery, By Michael Cooney
MAD Theatre Company
Milnrow Parish School
23 September 2004