DYSFUNCTIONAL families, missing zimmer frames and flaming wigs took over the Conquest Threatre, in Bromyard, in a very entertaining production from the St John's Players.

Centred around two neighbouring semi-detached houses in a neighbourhood "on the up", the story revolves around a fancy dress party being thrown by cheapskate perfectionist Michael Smethurst (Trevor King) and his long- suffering wife Roma (Julie Sadler), a couple determined to live well for the least possible expense. On the other side of the stage, elderly widow Mrs Hinson (Ann Smith) receives a visit from her 'executive' greengrocer son David (Dan Phillips) and his wife Jennifer (Christine King), for whom Mrs Hinson has a distinct disdain.

As the play progresses it becomes apparent that the Smethurst's party is only going to be attended by an anaesthetist with a gas mask fetish (David Solley) and a newly-single property developer (Claire Garbitt) on the run from her marauding Welsh husband. David and Jennifer's reason for visitation turns out to be an attempt to put the tactless Mrs Hinson in a home.

The cast did an excellent job with a most amusing script by playwright Richard Harris. Special mention must go to Ann Smith, who was wonderfully exasperating as Mrs Hinton, and Trevor King as Michael, surely a man who really should never throw a party if it means the possibility of people in his precious house and garden. Seldom has a grown man dressed as Ginger Rogers (complete with moustache) been as entertaining.

Phill Tromans