Theatre / avonmouth
Review: The Rise and Fall of Ronald J. Dump, Kings Weston House
As we gathered in the garden of Kings Weston House on a balmy June evening for the opening scene of Stepping Out Theatre’s new production, the contrast between the historic mansion behind us and the industrial view of Avonmouth in front could not have been starker.
In the midsummer sunset, though, even the docks looked beautiful, and it was in this setting that Stepping Out weaved a satirical tale that seem to rise out of the hazy landscape before us.
The show is performed by a large cast from the company, who produce plays with mental health themes. Their 68 productions to date have involved a mix of professionals and non-professionals with links to mental health services, including service users and their allies.
is needed now More than ever
All pics: Peter Hall
The premise of the play is that the Square Wheelers (a group who will be familiar to Stepping Out regulars) get lost and find themselves in the village of Hallen, somewhere between us and the docks.
They end up staying with elderly Rosemary Lancaster-Brown, played confidently by Alison Roberts, and overnight they encounter the ghosts that frequent her house. These spirits tell moving stories of past injustices – a woman hanged for witchcraft, another for improper behaviour – and warn that Hallen is about to succumb to modern threats from an American imperialist.
Eco-warriors, misfits, whatever you like to call them, this merry band set out on a mission to topple businessman Ronald J. Dump (Tom Collis) and his evil daughter (Emma Stadon) – and to save Hallen from their grip.
Along the way we meet members of this quirky community via a series of well-written village get-togethers reminiscent of The Vicar of Dibley, from greedy Barry the Vicar (Steve James) to the dodgy copper Inspector Bastard (Charlie Ekpaloba).
But it’s not as pantomime as it sounds. There is plenty of clever writing here: Mark Breckon has added in two very dry arts administrators to keep the show on track. The parallels with today’s politics get good laughs; an important plot twist is delivered by the person wearing the Fox News mask, and local references abound.
Stepping Out enjoy funding from the Arts Council and National Lottery, and what an excellent cause they are. Not only does this show have all the enthusiasm and big heart of community theatre, there are stellar performances and professional sound and lighting to boot.
The Rise and Fall of Ronald J. Dump continues at Kings Weston House until June 21. For more info and to book tickets, visit www.steppingouttheatre.co.uk/SteppingOutShowDetail.php?identifier=6400
Read more: Review: Three Sisters by RashDash, Tobacco Factory Theatres
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