Maskers Theatre Company 
Maskers Studio, Shirley, Southampton 
Anne Waggott 
24 February 2025
Notes From A Small Island are the memoires, witty observations and explorations of American travel writer, Bill Bryson, as he sets out on an entertaining tour around the UK, discovering the quirks and eccentricities of its inhabitants and the British way of life.
Although I have heard of the famous American non-fiction author, I confess I’ve never actually read any of his books, but that is going to change after seeing Maskers’ production of his much-loved best-seller, adapted for the stage by Tim Whitnall. With over 800 miles covered, over 80 characters and numerous accents, all performed by a cast of 10 actors, this is an ensemble production of the highest quality that has inspired me to delve deeper into Bryson’s work!
With so many actors taking multiple memorable roles, it seems churlish to highlight one over the other when all deliver such magnificent characters with expertise. The array of accents is spot on, there are clear distinctions between each personality, some heightened, some more subtle, but all the actors excel with comic timings, and verbal and visual delivery, both individually and as a cohesive group.
However, special mention has to be made for Johnny Carrington – the only actor to take on just one role in this play, that of Bryson himself. Rarely off stage and with what seems like a myriad of lines to learn, including some lengthy monologues, this is not a role for the faint-hearted! Carrington drives the narrative forwards with ease, as he meanders around the British Isles reliving Bryson’s memories as he goes. Also triggering numerous memories for the audience of characters and notable points in British history from Bryson’s arrival in 1973 and over the following 20-odd years, the play reflects the themes and language of the time; some of the references may not always sit easily with 21st century audiences, and yet the overall tone is one of warmth, affection, and nostalgic humour – with the occasional curmudgeonly travel-weary rants of a bemused and exhausted explorer!
Director Jenni Prior has overseen a wonderfully sharp and dynamic production, performed at a cracking pace (only a few slight stumbles on opening night – forgivable with such extensive and slick interweaving dialogue) and with brilliant characterisations. The actors are perfectly cast in their multitude of roles, with full kudos to Production Manager Jill Desborough and the production team for the first class elements that link the destinations and characters together.
Chris Baker and Clare Britton (costumes), and Adam Taussik and Lucy Lockyer (props) add all the visual touches to create instantly recognizable comic characters, sometimes with lightning speed, while projections on the white screen in an otherwise essentially black minimalist set are a glorious backdrop for Bryson’s journey around the country. Atmospheric lighting (Emily Smith) and sound effects (Jamie McCarthy) complete the production elements to make this hilarious studio play such a joyful evening’s entertainment.
If you are fortunate enough to have a ticket for this sold-out show, then sit back and enjoy the ride – you’re in for a treat! Notes From A Small Island runs until Saturday 1 March.
