Weekend Breaks was set in a small country hotel managed by Brian Hewlett (Mike Brook). Arriving for the weekend is Sandra Fitzwilliam (Kim Jakubiszyn), who is intending to seduce her art teacher, Rupert Valentine (Dave Richardson) while attending his master class. Also checking in as Mr & Mrs Smith is Sandra’s husband Nathan (Mike Cole) with his companion Michelle Downey (Kayleigh Dibble). Added to this is the decision by one of the hotel staff (Laura Murdock) to stay over in an empty room for the night, and you have all the ingredients together for farcical evening. But even the straightforward turns complicated, and there is a delightfully unexpected conclusion. This was a most enjoyable one act farce which had me laughing out loud throughout. It would be unfair to highlight performances by any one member of the cast as they all turned in good performances to create a great overall effect. However, I must mention Dave Richardson who managed to sustained a foreign accent (not sure where from) consistently throughout – well done!

 

The second offering for the evening was Dinner Plans. This was set in the home of Harold (Keith Phillips) and Marion Mortimer (Mandy Cole). Desperate to win the Country Manager of the Year Award, which has to be supported by staff testimonials, Harold invites two of his staff to dinner, planning to bribe or blackmail them into supporting him. Nervous James Everett (Bob Cole) arrives with ‘partner’ Lisa Adams (Jenna Sharpe) while Emma Bishop (Mo Pocock) is there with her partner Darren Watts (Kevin Miller). Unfortunately Harold’s plans unravel as secrets are discovered, tensions emerge and we find out more about the whole ensemble. Needless to say, he will never get the nomination, but not quite for the reason the audience suspect. Another enjoyable one act comedy with excellent performances by all!

 

Both the plays were tightly written and directed by John Hicks and were performed either side of an enjoyable buffet meal.