ENTERTAINING ANGELS By Roger Quilter Directed by Mark Storton The Rossendale Players I was particularly excited to attend this performance, as I was unfamiliar with the play, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. From the moment I entered the theatre, it was clear that a tremendous amount of effort had been put into the set design. The play predominantly takes place in the garden of the vicarage, and the set was meticulously crafted, featuring the side of the house, ivy-covered walls, trees, a greenhouse, and garden furniture. Gardening tools and other props added to the authentic feel of the scene, creating a truly immersive environment. The set felt both natural and effective, setting the perfect tone for the emotional and poignant story that was about to unfold. The play began with Hilary’s introduction, which quickly drew the audience into the unfolding drama. The character of Grace, played by Kathryn Bland, was central to the production. Grace, a widow still living in the vicarage where she and her late husband had spent their life, was portrayed beautifully by Bland. She delivered the role with excellent comic timing, strong diction, and great projection. Her portrayal of a woman grieving and isolating herself from reality felt incredibly natural and relatable. Grace’s character arc — from quiet sorrow to emotional upheaval — was executed with sensitivity and depth, keeping the audience emotionally engaged. Les Crick played Bardolph, the deceased vicar, whose presence in the play was entirely imagined by Grace. As a figment of her imagination, Bardolph only interacted with Grace, and he was ignored by the rest of the cast. Despite his ghostly status, Crick’s portrayal of the character was charming and warm, embodying the vicar’s gentle, dignified nature. His chemistry with Bland was palpable, creating a believable connection
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