CANTERBURY TALES

Nothe Fort, Weymouth

WOULD Chaucer recognise this up to date retelling of his tales as portrayed by the Dorset-based Wessex Actors Company? Yes, he certainly would, since the basic plots of seven of the poet’s stories are virtually intact, having just been made more approachable and hilariously funny for modern audiences to enjoy.

Seven actors make the most of a rhyming script that includes lots of bedtime frolics and bodily functions, not to mention dressing up as chickens or pretending to be Elvis Presley as they tell tales of sacrifice, greed and lust that are definitely in the adult category of entertainment.

With the minimum of props, this outdoor production directed by Jo Puttick brings the audience right into the picture as they are invited to choose the order in which the stories are told and vote for the best one as well as joining in lots of panto-style responses, oh yes they do.

An excellent and energetic professional cast never put a foot wrong with their changing roles and costumes, every character getting over-the-top treatment by the actors in a hugely entertaining comedy that keeps its hidden message of tolerance and forgiveness securely tucked out of sight and quite right too.

Special mention must go to Matthew Ellison as the rough and ready Miller who treats the audience to a series of bawdy jokes between the stories, which means of course that everyone loved them.

This unmissable treat continues in various Dorset locations throughout the coming month including Swanage, Wareham, and Kingston Lacey, finishing at Poundbury Farmhouse, Dorchester on Sunday 26th July.

MARION COX