One of Britain's best loved television sitcoms is about to hit the Hamilton stage in Playbox theatre's production of The Vicar of Dibley.
Set in a fictional Oxfordshire village, the comedy follows the hilarious relationships of the Reverend Geraldine Granger, councillor David Horton, Jim Trott, Owen Newitt, Frank Pickle, HugoHorton and Alice Tinker.
The stage adaption is designed to reduce the audience to fits of laughter.
The setting is close to home for English actor Garry Snape who plays the part of David Horton.
Snape, who arrived in New Zealand eight years ago, worked as a professional actor in Britain and is personally familiar with the setting and the typical characters involved.
Lee Owens, who plays the lead Geraldine Grainger - the vicar - is the image of comedienne Dawn French who played the part in the original British production.
Also the president of Playbox, she was keen to take the part.
"There's not a lot of main parts for women my age and build.
"I've only been on-stage a couple of times in the past few years and I thought it would be something I could do that would encompass French's bubbly portrayal of the vicar."
Director Jane Barnett, who also has family connections with Oxfordshire, has a background in musicals at Riverlea, and was thrilled to take on a comedy for Playbox.
"I loved the opportunity to do a straight play and develop characters and mannerisms to draw out the humour," she said.
The stage show provides a series of challenges including changes of scene and costume. It is being used as an opportunity to train new technicians in lighting, set design and wardrobe, Barnett said.
The Vicar of Dibley can be experienced at Riverlea Theatre from October 10-24.
Tickets can be reserved through iTicket or by calling Riverlea Theatre on 0800 800 192.
Playbox has an exciting 2016 season ahead with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory scheduled for April and Bullshot Crummond in July. Further details at www.playbox.org.nz.
