Cast

Synopsis

Since its first performance in 1892 this farce has never lost its popularity. The imminent visit of Charles Wykeham’s aunt from Brazil provides an excuse for Charles and Jack to invite their young ladies to meet her. When the visit is postponed, they persuade their amiable friend to impersonate her (as young ladies had to have a chaperon). And so the fun begins. The blatant disguises, chases and intricate situations that totter ridiculously on the brink of discovery combine to create a skilfully crafted triumph of comic ingenuity. Come for a laugh, and another and then another.

Directors Notes

In 1892 impecunious students had wealthy relatives and good manners, but conventions had to be observed including ensuring the presence of a chaperone when meeting young ladies. Which is why Charley’s Aunt plays such an important role in the lives of Jack and
Charley. Older members of the audience might like to be reminded that our director played the part of Jack in a previous production but, more interestingly, Jenny Illingworth played Ela, the same role now being portrayed by her daughter. Others in the cast included
Tony Haigh, Bob Green. Audrey Brown and Margot Illingworth.