Bournemouth, Events & Entertainment | Posted on April 15th, 2026 | return to news

Neighbourhood Watch

Bournemouth Little Theatre, Winton

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Although written by Alan Ayckbourn in 2011, the company have put in an allusion to a certain red tie-wearing American president in what I can only describe as a brilliant production.

Another play in the theatre’s ‘Dying with Laughter’ series, it tells the story of a brother Martin and his sister Hilda who in all innocence set up a Neighbourhood Watch group following some petty crime from a nearby estate.

However, the group goes out of control and becomes an authoritarian force controlling the lives of the people they are supposed to protect. Think the erection of stocks and other means of subjugation.

There is plenty of humour, more than a touch of sadness and outstanding performances from the eight-strong cast.

Barry Gray is simply superb as the apparently straight-laced Martin with comedic timing, teaming so well with Hilda (Amanda Hyatt) whose facial expression tells a thousand words.

Chas Davenport, who has appeared with many local groups over the past 30 years, encapsulates the former security guard Ron with bluster and huge spoonfuls of humour.

Nicola King is the gossipy neighbour who skilfully interjects in every conversation.

The part of next-door neighbour Magda requires Marianne Chabin to be in a constant state of distress and this she perfects as the music teacher with a chilling secret.

Her husband Luther gives Topher Lynn the chance to be both sinister and unpleasant in equal measure.

I’m sure that when Emma Seymour was cast as the over-the-top flirtatious Amy she must have decided to run with it, as she gives it her all with her playful teasing, head tilting and artful strutting.

Lindsay Jones not only has to put in a well-rounded performance as unemployed engineer Gareth, he had to take the reins as director when his predecessor had to drop out for health reasons.

I don’t know whether there are any tickets left, as such is the reputation of this company that they sell out very quickly, but do try to secure one. It runs until this Saturday: https://www.bournemouthlittletheatre.co.uk.