Asterix on stage

Press, 16 August 1984, Page 8

Asterix on stage

“Asterix and the Great Divide,” by the Canterbury Children’s Theatre at the Repertory Theatre, August 15 to September 1 at 7 p.m. Running time two hours. Reviewed by Stephen Quinn. The Repertory Theatre bubbled with life and laughter last evening for the opening performance of "Asterix and the Great

Divide." It was an evening of fun and frolic which will be enjoyed by people of all age groups. From the opening scene when we are introduced to the character, through to the all-singing, all-dancing finale, the cast generated an enthusiasm which was quite catching, and always entertaining. Indeed, it is a case where that wonderfully hackneyed expression “something for everyone,” is appropriate. Children will enjoy the play because it has all the ingredients of a successful Saturday matinee; humour, conflict and chaos, with just a touch of intrigue. Adults will appreciate the witty script and sumptuous s&p. It is a production that

is always lively and engaging. The script by Ken Campbell is to be commended. He has adapted the story from the original French comics, adding a mass of sometimes appalling puns. ‘At their worst they are worthy of a chuckle, and when the cast got the timing right, which they frequently did last evening, it produced some sparkling theatre. . The story line is relatively simple which is appropriate for the young audience at which it’s aimed.

Asterix and his gigantic friend Obelix are called to help the inhabitants of a village which has been divided politically and physically (hence the title) by inter-village rivalry and a deep gully. The play works on two levels. The way Asterix and his friends save the village from traitors and the invading Romans provides a plot which children of all ages will be able to follow. On a more adult level the writer engages in some gentle mockery at the petty political hopes of the rulers

of the divided village, who are called the kings of the Left and the Right. In a strong cast, all of whom seemed to enjoy their roles, Robin McKenzie and Bruce Gordon stood out as Asterix and Obelix.

■ Obelix was a particular favourite with the younger members of the audience. His booming voice and huge body dominated the play whenever he was on stage, and by the later stages of the performance his every action seemed to get a laugh or applause. The four narrators, who also served as prop people, held the play together well during the many scene changes, and helped to explain the action. They were aided by a trio of fine young musicians. The selection of music to highlight the various groups of characters was intellligent and appropriate, as was the over-all direction by Maureen Stopforth. For parents who need somewhere to take the children during the school holidays, I heartily recommend this Production. You will as much as they do.