LANE End Players offered an interesting take on the old Alfred Hitchcock classic from the John Buchan book.

There were only 5 members in the cast but it seemed to be many more as the talented actors took on myriad roles.

James Wood was brilliant as Richard Hanney, word perfect and the epitome of the English gentleman.

Sophie Marshall was impressive playing three very different roles convincing in each of them. Dave Bowden, Tom Everitt and Nigel Bacon were absolutely hilarious taking on so many parts it was exhausting trying to keep up with them. Their accents especially Scottish were perfect.

The iconic scene on the train where they changed their personalities just with a different hat was hilarious and superbly performed. The Forth Bridge escape was equally inspiring. Credit must go to the sound and lighting technicians together with the set designers and builder.

There were so many effects all masterfully carried out and the scene on the moors with the rising mist almost obscuring the front rows of the audience, together with the very funny and extremely clever effects added to the overall comedy of the action.

Not an easy play to direct but Kath Gill did a tremendous job maintaining a fast pace throughout. The Lane End Players are an extremely talented group and offer a great variety in their productions. This was one of their best but they never seem to amaze with their work. An enthralling evening’s entertainment offering amateur theatre at its best. Well done.