THE TITFIELD THUNDERBOLT

REVIEWS:

I found its dottiness an almost constant pleasure. Kate O'Mara takes to the stage to play a character undreamt of in the movie, the posh Lady Edna Chesterford, whose grandfather started the railway. Her diatribe against the interfering little Hitlers who run England with their clipboards memorably captures the subversive spirit of Ealing comedy. For collectors of cherishable English comedy, this enjoyably chaotic show is a real find. First class. (Daily Telegraph)

 A big, gallant dollop of imagination. Engaging comedy. A happy evening, perfect for grandparents and children. And steam-train enthusiasts. (Daily Mail)

A little piece of old England was restored to the mantelpiece this week as The Titfield Thunderbolt started its run - with hilarious results. Sound writing and quality acting paid dividends. The result was a packed auditorium laughing and clapping with pleasure. (Ham & High, London 24)

What's clever about Bob Carlton's direction is that with only five actors it manages to twirl the audience into its own zany world. It's a fun evening and a romp in a very old, very British tradition with some marvellous theatre effects. What more could you want? (What's On Stage)

Bob Carlton's entertaining production. (The Guardian)

This inventive production. (The Stage)

Philip Goulding's wonderful stage version. It's all dished up with hilarious consequences. Very funny. A good-natured and delightful play. (Epping Forest Guardian)

It is not often the theatre provides an evening of unadulterated fun - but that is the case with The Titfield Thunderbolt. The talented cast, headed by the ageless Kate O'Mara, gently send up the old Ealing Comedy and it works beautifully. This is a production to please all the family. (Brighton Argus)

An evening of fun. This cheerful and delightful play. (Theatreworld Internet Magazine)

A definite crowd-pleaser. (What's On)

A feelgood night of theatrical fun. (Romford Recorder)

Charming and mischievious. Rattling good fun. The play is full of gentle humour and permeated with affection not only for the railway, but also for the era, with authentic and thoughtful touches of the 50s throughout. Chockful of running gags. Heart-warming. A joy to behold. (Farnham Herald)

Absolutely fabulous - that's the only way to describe The Titfield Thunderbolt. The play tells the story of a band of enthusiastic amateurs battling to retain their village's railway line despite Government red tape and the rivalry of the dastardly omnibus owner. The show is a must for everybody...excellently scripted...full of comic lines...the audience laughed continually...a comedy for all the family. (Chronicle and Advertiser)

Philip Goulding's adaptation captures the fighting community spirit of the original. A host of amusing, acutely observed characters. The play touches a contemporary nerve, enlisting the audience's imagination and involvement, and it responds with delighted support. This rollicking production is pure fun. (The Stage)