The acting is as smoothly negotiated as the murder in Bridge Theatre's latest ensemble production of the Hollow at Sheringham Little Theatre.

By MIRANDA YATES

The acting is as smoothly negotiated as the murder in Bridge Theatre's latest ensemble production of the Hollow at Sheringham Little Theatre.

There is something civilised and comforting about a conventional three-act whodunit, but you need a richly talented cast such as this, to add an extra kick to the classic recipe.

Vivienne Moore is aptly natty as Lady Angakatell — and Miss Marple'ish character whose bumblings barely masks a mind as sharp as a poisoned hatpin. Her unrestrained delight in the gory drama is laughed at — out loud — funny and bonded her to an audience who were taking an equally vocal pleasure in the action. Their whispered deductions and exclamations as each new clue came to light gave the theatre the atmosphere of a massive game of Cluedo.

This production serves up its post war Britishness on a silver tray and with impeccable timing. There is a wonderful moment of politely polished contempt when the glamorous Hollywood actress from next door sashays in uninvited, asks for a light and is presented with 20 gift wrapped matchboxes on a serving platter and a storm of frost from every other guest. "Marry me if you can bare it" proposed Christopher Irvin's Edward, the Hugh Grant-like suitor who succeeds in inspiring both pity and irritation. Any actress who can respond with the line "Cause I love you, darling idiot!" and make it sound quaintly moving must be worth a trip to the seaside.

You'd be a darling idiot to miss this superb show which runs until August 18.