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The Pickwick Papers Malvern Theatres *** This new adaptation of Charles Dickens'
first venture into writing stories bubbles along with zest and fun,
although it does stall at times. Taken from the famous
author's serialised works of The
Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club,
we follow the adventures of a collection of loveable characters over
nearly three hours. The stage may be sparse but as we move with the
clandestine bunch from inn to inn, a new pub sign is swung on to stage
with tongue firmly in cheek. It is all part of the gentle humour, which makes
this performance so agreeable. Actor John D Collins typifies the moral Samuel
Pickwick and former Eastenders star Dean Gaffney is well suited for the
role of his chirpy manservant Sam Weller (although his first appearance
is not until the end of the first half). On the comedy side of things, Daniel Robinson's
Nathaniel Winkle and Scott Gray's Augustus Snodgrass are delightfully
silly, flouncing around with high-pitched giggles; while Rebecca
Wheatley portrays a wonderful caricature of a Victorian spinster won
over by a conman as ridiculous Rachel Wardle. All the acting is delightful and some of the
scenes in the adventures stand out - including when they catch up with
Ms Wardle who has fled with dastardly Mr Jingle, and the hilarious court
scene when Mr Pickwick is in the dock. However, there are moments when the action
stalls, but it is overall a charming classic with a Christmas feel. Alison Brinkworth
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