Respecting Your Piers

St Paul's (Astley Bridge) Amateur Operatic Society

Astley Bridge Theatre Church

PETER Quilter's new comedy is the story of five women forced to cast aside their differences when they inherit an almost derelict pier, which they must fight to save.

The roles are quite demanding putting the five women through their paces -- both emotionally and physically.

Julie Nappin, Eileen and Emma Powell, Cecilia Keefe and Carole Gannon take on the challenge of this bitter-sweet comedy.

The all-woman cast were faultless, ranging from the terrifically nerdy Theresa, played by Julie Nappin, through to cocky punk Sharon (Emma Powell).

Extra laughs came from Betty (Cecilia Keefe) who, although she was perhaps too young for the role she was playing, was very good.

The play is entertaining and the scenery simple but very effective. It even gives us the promise of an appearance by Shirley Bassey!

It all makes for a pleasant night, but I couldn't help feeling a little disappointed by a storyline which seemed to fall a little flat towards the end.

Respecting Your Piers runs until Saturday.

Beverly Greenberg