Ferndown Drama 
Barrington Theatre, Ferndown
Suzanne Viney 
11 March 2026
The acclaimed playwright, Harold Pinter, once commented, “…cricket is the greatest thing that God ever created on earth – certainly greater than sex, although sex isn’t too bad either.” It is this sentiment that seems to be the driving force behind Ferndown Drama’s latest offering, Outside Edge, a play by Richard Harris, written in1979, and notably adapted for television in the 1990s.
Egocentric Roger, played with great pomposity by Jeremy Mills, seems to believe he is the King of the Pavilion; his wife Miriam (Kristy Dixon), is Queen of the teapot. From the outset, it is clear that their superficially perfect marriage is under some strain; he is overbearing, she is mousey. The end result is a comic, but uncomfortable, expose of matrimonial relationships in the latter half of the twentieth century.
The other couples on display are equally dysfunctional. Some of the funniest interplay is between “Big Maggie” (Dawn Hollington) and “Little Kevin” (Peter Giddings), who are perfectly cast in their contrasting roles. I am still wondering exactly what went on under the fur coat! Estelle Hughes excels as the self-indulgent Ginnie, using the cricket as an opportunity to get a suntan. Meanwhile, her husband Bob (Rob Reynolds) gives a convincing performance as a good “all-rounder” who is confused about where his true loyalties lie. Exuding arrogance and lacking empathy, Alex (Scott Bedwell) is arguably the most unpleasant character; Susy Davies, playing Sharon, his newly acquired girlfriend, has fewer lines than most but compensates for this with excellent facial expressions and body language. The ensemble is completed by George Findlay, whose portrayal of Dennis is strong throughout.
Director Steve Hawker uses the stage and auditorium well to create an impression of a cricket pavilion and, in the second act, an ongoing cricket match. The set is interesting and the use of different levels allows flexibility in blocking, particularly when the entire cast is on stage. The audience clearly enjoyed the opening music, which is effective in transporting us to the world of cricket.
This is a funny play with some dark undertones, particularly for a 21st century audience. In the 1970s, I think this would have been seen as a “laugh out loud” comedy. In 2026, some of the interactions between characters could be interpreted as showing a brutish side to human nature.
This is an enjoyable evening at the Barrington Theatre; it is easy to park and there are a raffle, as well as refreshments. The ice cream is excellent!
HOWZAT!
