TOM, Dick and Harry by Ray and Michael Cooney is the latest offering from the ever popular Western Players, at the Arts Centre this week.

The play centres on the Kerwood brothers who are not your everyday Tom, Dick and Harry.

Tom and his wife Linda are in the final stages of adopting a baby and are awaiting the arrival of the head of the adoption agency, Mrs Potter.

Unfortunately, at the same time, Dick, who shares the house with Tom and Linda, returns from a French smuggling trip - along with two illegal Kosovan refugees who sneaked into his van in Calais.

Meanwhile, hospital porter Harry has thought up an ambitious plan to get the price reduced on the house Tom and Linda want to buy. Then the fun starts.

Richard Mummery, as Tom, was quite outstanding. He was word perfect and had superb comedy timing which is must for the leading role in what is an engaging farce. Laura Keogh (Linda) was a very good support for Richard and well cast. She too delivered a convincing role.

Iloved John Fisher as Dick. He has an easy going acting ability. He was the epitome of a loveable rogue. Tom Freegard gave a good performance as Harry, although I wasn't sure about the characterisation.

That's just my opinion. The other members of the audience loved him. Farce is difficult to play. Keeping a straight face when needed is even more difficult.

Maria Bowler (Katerina) and Tony Manders (Andreas) were excellent as the illegal immigrants. The difficult script was played out with gusto and believability.

The interrupting of proceedings from Robert Elrick as Constable Downs was enjoyed by all, as was the part of Mrs Potter played by Zena Howarth.

The final touch of Stuart Jackson as Boris showed just how important it is to cast well. This company couldn't be faulted for the little things that make a good production into an excellent one.

Director Julia Edwards did a great job in the staging of this difficult farce. Farce needs pace, energy and good timing . . . and it had it all in abundance.

Ros Hollands