Safari Party, Ambleside Players, Kelsick Centre

AMBLESIDE Players have recently chosen some unusual, interesting plays, and Tim Firth's Safari Party, was one of these.

This dark, rumbustious comedy, deals with the fortunes of two young farming brothers who are desperately trying to make ends meet.

The play was directed by Trish Donson, who handled the challenge very skilfully, especially as it was performed in the round.

Phil Higgins and Ben Abdelnoor were excellent as the brothers Dan and Adam, gaining our sympathy and pointing up their contrasting characters, all with great comedy.

Barry Porter clearly revelled in portraying chauvinistic, nouveau riche Lol, and was very funny, as was Jenny Kynman as his suitably bling - adorned wife, Esther. Compliments to the wardrobe team are due here. Faye Buckley was delightful as

their long-suffering daughter, driven to white lies to avoid their embarassiing interference in her life. Completing the party was antiques dealer Inga, as whom Moira Rowlinson provided a charming urbanity, in marked contrast to the other characters.

Special praise must go to the backstage team, who dealt most efficiently with the demands of three totally different sets and many props - not at all easy in the round format.

Altogether this made a very enjoyable evening's entertainment.

Kathryn M Saalmans