In Search of Pontiflunk

In Search of Pontiflunk was an exciting and thought provoking one-man show produced by New Perspectives Theatre Company. The play, written by Phil Smith, was inspired by discovering and reading George Hurst’s’ account of his walk from Manchester to Leicestershire in the early 20th century. Smith followed Hurst’s walk in 2007 and ‘In Search of Pontiflunk’ is the result. During his walk, Hurst had planted hundreds of acorns: it was part of Smith’s aim to see if any of these documented plantings had grown into mature trees. The answer was none. The reasons why, discovered through a myriad of characters and situations that he came across on his walk tells us much about 20th century rural Britain. Some of it depressing beyond measure – the heedless pollution of our natural environment, our moral abandonment of the value of beauty and repose. But, paradoxically, Smith gives us some hope, that as the 21st century dawns, and that plunder rebounds on ourselves, we start to see – not too late we hope, the environment in a different light. Josh Darcy, who played Phil Smith, was terrific. He managed to combine and contrast the three narrative streams brilliantly. He kept us aware of the ‘plot’ - Hurst’s original text - while weaving Smith’s ‘real time’ commentary around it, The third narrative was Darcy’s wonderful acting and mimicry which brought out all the wit, satire and pathos of Smiths’ text. The production was excellent; the atmospheric lighting and images made Tealby Village Hall the ideal venue. Though nearly a sell-out, the very poor weather resulted in a smaller but enthusiastic audience. If any of you would like to see the show, it is touring around small venues around Lincolnshire for the next few weeks – check them out on www.newperspectives.co.uk. And ‘Pontiflunk?’ - Hurst's dog, whose untimely death cut short his adventure. A terrific evening.