REVIEW: Murder at Green Acres

Footlights drama group has been on the go for nineteen years now and has nurtured theatrical talents in countless young people in the Dungannon area and beyond. This production, which was staged in CRAIC Theatre on 22nd and 23rd April, epitomises everything that Footlights stands for. An original stage play, written and directed by Roisin-Anne McGeown (under the pseudonym of Paul Convery), the comical ‘whodunnit’ story required an extravagant sixteen actors, therefore providing a great opportunity for members of the Footlights group to hone their skills.

But this wasn’t simply just an exercise in which to give the young people a run out on the stage. This was a production that was professional, enjoyable, engaging and nothing but commendable. Not only was the plot fantastic, calling to mind the likes of The Mouse Trap and The 39 Steps, but with a play comprising so many actors the audience was able to differentiate between the characters and easily follow the intricate storyline. Particular attention should be paid to Maire Fahy, who played Marjorie Fortesque, with her unfaltering English accent, haughty airs and quick temper, her performance was nothing short of excellent.

Other stand out performances came with Kevin Campbell’s portrayal of Geoffrey, and Harry-Og Conlon’s interpretation of Rev Winklebottom . The bubbling English accents of these two were most entertaining, and they made their comical situations even funnier.

The interaction between the actors on stage was perhaps what made this play such a winner with an audience that had members from all age groups. Seeing productions like this just proves how brilliant community theatre can be and how important it is that we support it.