Denys Edwards Players’ The Vicar of Dibley – 19 February 2025, Dronfield Civic Hall

Review by Sue Curr.

As one of Sheffield’s premier theatre groups Denys Edwards Players are well versed in the art of taking much loved theatrical masterpieces and bringing them to life in their own inimitable way, without the need to “reinvent the wheel”. Which also includes their latest offering “The Vicar of Dibley” directed by Andy Hibbert.

From the very first scene to the last DEP’s latest production was brimming with heartfelt humour, and the unmistakable charm of classic British comedy. The Vicar of Dibley is a joyous theatrical experience that pays faithful homage to the beloved television series of the same name. Under the guidance of Andy Hibbert this production skilfully brings to life the quirky yet endearing inhabitants of Dibley, with a cast who had clearly not only paid due diligence when building their individual characterisations but were equally continually able to delight the audience with their near perfect, excellently pitched comic timing.

At the heart of the play is Geraldine Granger, the vivacious and witty vicar played superbly by Joanne Ringrose whose warmth and quick humour captivated the audience from the start. Her interactions with the delightfully oddball parish council provided some of the production’s most hilarious and heartfelt moments. Using a consummate blend of sarcasm and inuendo Joanne was able to further deepen Geraldine’s character to successfully reflect her unwavering kindness and razor-sharp wit, thus creating the perfect contrast to David Horton, the pompous yet ultimately redeemable chairman of the council played very convincingly by Rob Calman. The verbal sparring between Geraldine and David is an absolute treat to witness especially when David’s stubbornness meets its match in Geraldine’s persistent yet charismatic razor sharp wit.

Special mentions must go to Kate Spivey for her portrayal of Alice Tinker, the lovable and absent-minded verger, who literally stole every scene she was in with cleverly crafted, innocently whimsical naivety and boundless enthusiasm. Her misinterpretations and bewildering logic brought some of the play’s biggest laughs, making her a very firm favourite with the audience from where I was sitting.

Jim Trott’s infamous “no-no-no-no-yes” stammer is executed with impeccable comedic timing by Michael Bullock and elevated his every conversation into a hilariously unpredictable exchange. Likewise with Richard Bevans interpretation of his character Owen Newitt’s offbeat personae and often inappropriate remarks which not only added an extra layer of outrageous humour but provided a raucous energy that perfectly complemented the ensemble as a whole.

The innovative use of a static, split-scene set allowed for seamless transitions between locations. Further distinguished by cleverly executed subtle shifts in the staging by utilising lighting music and video effects. Overall the split-scene approach enabled swift changes in focus without disrupting the rhythm of the performance and ensured that the play moved at an engaging and lively pace. Whether capturing the intimacy of Geraldine’s vicarage or the formal absurdity of the parish meetings, the set did no more or less than enhance the comedy while staying true to the cohesive and immersive community that is Dibley.

Ultimately, this production of The Vicar of Dibley is a triumphant adaptation, striking a near perfect balance between nostalgia and fresh comedic energy. The combination of outstanding character portrayals and a cleverly executed set design ensures a production that is as visually engaging as it is laugh-out-loud funny. Fans of the original series will be delighted, while newcomers will find themselves charmed by the eccentric yet undeniably lovable village of Dibley. Whichever “camp” you belong to? I can highly recommend that you grab yourself a ticket while you still can, then sit back and relax as you let the “Magic of Dibley” wash over you.