PREVIOUS PRODUCTION
2003-2004.....(Outrageous Nonsense)
 
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The Proposal is a farce, proving that Chekhov can have a slapstick side to his humour. His characters are generally better off and of landed gentry whereas Gogol's characters are mostly working class and poor. But they are unified in their absurdity and have a way of making us recognise ourselves and laugh with them.

"Outrageous Nonsense continues Mad Dogs and Englishmen Theatre Company's tradition of sharp and witty comedy. Checkov's 'Proposal' and Gogol's 'Overcoat' are seamlessly intertwined by director, Ann Courtney, amply demonstrating why Ann and Mad Dogs are rapidly establishing a reputation for intelligent but accessible drama.
Excellent direction and superb physical characterisation gives an impression of a big cast from an ensemble of only four very talented actors. The fast-paced performance was augmented by an original and evocative score and was lit by Mad Dogs' own engineer to provide a fully rounded and satisfying theatre experience.


 
 
  Outrageous Nonsense (Anton Chekhov and Nikolai Gogol)
‘Outrageous Nonsense’ is new writing by Ann Courtney based on amusing and funny short stories from Gogol and Chekhov. The play comprises of energetic physical comedy and covers such diverse topics as a land dispute between neighbours! A nose becomes detached from its rightful owner! And the mysterious disappearance of an overcoat! The stories are seamlessly intertwined and with atmospheric music specially composed for the show audiences are transported to a time a space far away from their doorstep.
   

 

 Cast and Crew
     

Nick Murray Brown:
Choobukov / The Clerk / Petrovich, The Talor
Andy Wisher:
Lomov / The Policeman / Kovalyov / The Important Person
Stephan Drury:
Ivan / Akaky
Sara-Jane Derrick:
Natalyia / Sophie / An Office Worker / Mrs Petrovich

Ann Courtney:
Director / Choreographer
Paul Preston Mills:
Stage Manager
Paul Warren:
Publicity Design
Sue Warren:
Costume Design
Andy Taylor:
Composer

Mad Dogs' excellent artistic quality is backed up by a friendly and efficient administrator. This is a company who deliver the goods both on stage and off."

Alistair Winch, Audience Development and Touring Officer for Creative Arts East

"Mad Dogs and Englishmen had a large Lazonby audience rolling in the aisles... this production cleverly combined farce and friction to hold up a magnifying glass to our human condition."

The Cumberland and Westmoreland Herald
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