SOUTH CANTERBURY DRAMA LEAGUE
Tom, Dick and Harry
The Playhouse
November 29
As an avid theatregoer and performer, I can not recall a time when a production has caused me to thoroughly enjoy the feeling of crippling anxiety.
The South Canterbury Drama League’s production of Tom, Dick and Harry can be described as simply manic . . . but in the best possible way.
The end-of-year farce, directed by TJ Ramsay, tells the eccentric tale of brothers Tom (Cameron Lines), Dick (Cam Sutcliffe) and Harry Kerwood (Luke Robb).
The story begins with Tom and his wife Linda (Emma Robb) about to adopt a baby — all seems to be going to plan until Tom’s well-meaning brothers decide to ‘‘help’’.
Their efforts quickly spiral out of control, resulting in two illegal immigrants, a van full of contraband cigarettes and bits and pieces of a dead body.
That is just the first 20 minutes.
The trio of Lines, Sutcliffe and Robb are no strangers to sharing the stage and had the audience in stitches from start to finish with their chaotic chemistry and highenergy physical comedy.
Special mention must be made of Lines’ performance as Tom.
To go from what appeared to be a grounded, sensible character to an absolutely dishevelled mess by the end of the show was a joy to witness.
The entire cast left everything on the stage, and each played their part in crafting a thoroughly enjoyable experience for the audience.
Did any of the characters learn an important lesson? Probably not. Were there any themes or messages that will impact my life going forward? Probably not. Did I have a blast. Absolutely.
It was great to shut my brain off, and just have a good laugh — a rare treat in today’s climate.
Tom, Dick and Harry is a production not to be missed and is a true showcase of the strength of South Canterbury’s performing arts scene.
Tickets for the three remaining performances on Friday and Saturday can be purchased from iTICKET or the Timaru Information Centre.
