'ONE FOR THE POT' OPENS
About the article
This is a digitised version of an article from The Cayman Compass's print archive. Occasionally, the digitisation process introduces transcription errors, or other problems.
See the article in its original context from April 1974.
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Not much now can be said about Nick Press's leading role as to divulge too much of the plot would spoil the play for others who will have an opportunity to see the farce tonight through Saturday.
But not enough can be said for Nick, an oldtimer in the Society, and one of the major actors on his performance as Hickory Wood. His part in the production was an extremely challenging one and Nick met the obstacles head-on and conquered them. The plot of the play is based around the fact that Jonathan Hardcastle, a North Country mill owner, irascible in temper and hard drinking in habit, decides to make a settlement of £10,000 on Billy Hickory Wood son of an old friend of his, providing that Billy is the sole survivor of the Hickory Wood family.
Billy turns up to collect the "Pot" of money and all seemingly goes well. Because Billy's family was split up when he was small he is unaware of the existence of a twin brother who also arrives to collect "the pot".
Perhaps one of the greatest performances, particularly by a "One For The Pot" from page 1 novice actor, was turned in by Peter Webber in the role of Charlie Barnet--who comes along with Billy Hickory Wood to help collect the "pot". Peter's role as Hickory's sly but humorous Cockney friend who poses as a solicitor on his behalf keeps the play moving at a fast pace throughout and tiresome as the role must have been Peter never seems to let down. Cyril "one in the Pot" Carbutt plays Jonathan Hardcastle and although missing a few lines, he not only looks and acts the part but turns in an admirable job as the hard-drinking mill owner. Another "oldtimer"--Roderick Donaldson-plays the part of Jugg, the household manservant. He seemed extremely well-suited for the role although he unfortunately tended to go a little too far with some of the humour. Cynthia Hardcastle, Jonathan's daughter, is played by Hazel MacKenzie and is to be commended for her subtle interpretation and clear diction. Barry Smith, who plays his reallife role as a lawyer, comes across well as the doddery Arnold Piper. Rounding out the cast is Judith Moore, Dave Bennett, Arek Joseph, Nan Alexander and Aline Staples. Working behind the scenes is always tough. The stage decoration and lighting accomplished in only two-and-a-half weeks, gave the effect of a true English manor house. Sound effects were particularly effective.
Stage Manager for this production was Chris Evans. It well worth the time to take in "One For The Pot" and it is certainly one that drama lovers shouldn't miss.
