I was kindly invited to sit and watch the first dress rehearsal of HATS upcoming production - ‘The Vicar of Dibley.’

Now where do I begin...first of all this is a stage play by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter which had been adapted from the original TV series made by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer with kind permission of Tiger Aspect Productions.

As the play producer, Sarah Leach, writes in the programme the adaptation is based primarily on the first two series of the beloved TV production but there is some references from later episodes along the way.

Let me just say, as someone who isn’t that up to date with the TV programme being a 2000’s baby, I thought the play was absolutely hilarious and very witty – it even inspired me to go home and watch Vicar of Dibley highlights on Youtube!

Amy Clarke who plays Geraldine Grainger, aka the vicar, was the perfect cast for the star of the show. Fantastic delivery on every joke, took on the role perfectly and looks fantastic in a wig.

Hannah Cook who plays Alice Tinker – brilliant. It’s very clear to see that Hannah really dedicated herself to play the role of Alice. She did an amazing job and will defiantly get the crowd roaring with laughter on show nights.

And we can not forget the members of the Dibley Parish Council; David Horton played by Grant Fulcher, Hugo Horton played by Matt Long, Jim Trott played by Nick Cleaver, Frank Pickle played by Ron Lester, Owen Newitt played by Mike Wonnacott and Mrs Cropley played by Lesley Wonnacott.

All brilliant actors who portrayed their characters really, really well. Every single joke was spot on and hilariously funny.

The story keeps it’s momentum through the entire production and is very easy to understand. The set design is simple, but effective and portrays traditional British sitcom vibes.

The cast did so well at remembering their lines, I forgot it was only a rehearsal!

Overall, I think anyone who has bought a ticket to see this show will be absolutely delighted that they did and I think that anyone who hasn’t bought a ticket will absolutely devastated that they didn’t.

This show is funny, relatable and I think that anyone would be missing out if they didn’t pay a visit to HATS theatre.

And to top it all off - all royalties of this play will be donated to Comic Relief.

The Vicar of Dibley will be showing from September 7 to 9 and September 14 to 16. To find out more visit: holsworthytheatre.co.uk