It seems that health issues have had quite a deliterious effect on community theatre in the southern suburbs of late, what with Phoenix having to postpone its June season of 'Source' and Harbour its July season of 'A Hard God', both due to cast members being hospitalised with serious illnesses. It is therefore rather apt that Mandurah Little Theatre has stopped the gap somewhat by transplanting its production of Peter Horsler's medico-comedy to the Princess May for an extended season (sorry - wrapped last Saturday night).

I was initially somewhat misled by the title. It has nothing whatsoever to do with the withdrawal of troops from Iraq - rather, it is all about the somewhat dubious modus operandi of certain unprincipled purveyors of medical services and their hapless victims - er - patients - under the British National Health Service. I couldn't help but compare this play with Grads' production last year of 'What the Butler Saw', except that instead of sex and power, this one deals with sex and money (but then..). In any case, I feel quite sure the one was heavily 'informed' by the other, although which came first I am unable to say.

As is often the case with community theatre, the cast seemed to consist of a mixture of seasoned veterans and relative newcomers, although the program notes gave no indication along those lines. They all handled their roles reasonably well, although the pace was a little erratic from time to time and some lines and cues could have done with a little more 'polishing'. The light, sound and set design were all up to the usual Harbour standard, with once again some touches reminiscent of 'the Butler'.

In all, a good fun show. Well done, Mandurah for coming to the party and best wishes to the aforementioned cast members for speedy recoveries.

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