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The cast of The Darling Buds of May from the Phoenix Players production at Swindon Arts Centre last week

An amateur dramatic society faces a massive challenge in tackling the stage version of a hit TV series.

The Phoenix Players' absolute triumph last week, in The Darling Buds of May, H E Bates' engaging tale of the Larkin family, reflected this company's remarkable expertise.

Audiences were enchanted as they were drawn into the Larkins' rural idyll in 1950's Kent, in Colin Wilkins' absorbing production at the Arts Centre, Swindon.

The play proved so popular that a Saturday matinee was added to the regular schedule. This charming comedy offered sheer escapism and left everyone smilling.

Stephanie Trinci and Mike Sly, as Ma and Pa Larkin headed a superb cast. Gemma Short (who bears remarkable resemblance to Catherine Zeta Jones) was their eldest daughter, Mariette.

Her younger siblings were played with natural verve by Max Sly, Lacey Edwards, Annabel Sly, Felicity Coster and Niamh Trinci (with three of the roles being played at the Saturday matinee by Patrick McAteer, Tegan Woods and Emily Woods).

James Canning was the shy, diffident taxman, Cedric Charlton, who fell under the Larkins' spell. Soon, with a new persona as Charlie, he was ready to ditch his office job in favour of country life and marriage to Mariette.

Courtenay Merchant was perfect as the Brigadier, with Roger Trayhurn and Marlene Poole as Sir George and Lady Bluff-Gore and Jean Belt as Miss Pilchester. Ann E Despres was the alluring Angela Snow, and Nikki Sly played Pauline Jackson.

Dennis Breakspear portrayed a senior tax officer with off-duty joviality before being shocked to recognise his errant junior colleague. Margaret Price and Emma Palmer completed the able cast.

A convincing set incorporated the farmhouse kitchen and part of the yard creating just the right ambience. One could almost glimpse the bluebell wood and meadow, off-stage.

Stella Taylor

6:00am Thursday 1st May 2008

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