UpN'Under Hull Truck Theatre 13th July continued By Michelle Dee

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It felt at times that her portrayal of Hazel was too close to that of Samantha Janus in the 1998 film also directed by Godber. Where as the other cast members created new layers and added to the established roles, Kate's Hazel didn't have anything new to offer. On second thoughts her resemblance to Sam Janus may well have skewed my judgement; the blonde hair, perfect cheekbones, fit body. Did I say fit body? It has to be said that this is a very physical performance and amongst the paraphernalia of the gym and the semi-nudity of the changing room it is impossible not to admire the players' bodies.

In particular that of James Crossley who was a tour de force playing Tony the wannabe lapdancer. His sheer physical presence made the temperature rise a few degrees in the auditorium. Before the finale the stage had to be cleared of all the training equipment, this was not done in awkward silence and blackout, which is the usual method of scene change. The actors came on stage in character exchanging banter and shifted the lot in double quick time. Strangely this odd decision worked but I can't for the life of me understand why.

So on to the rugby match, the battle royale. How do you stage a seven-a-side rugby game on a stage with only six people? Godber manages to create the drama and nail-biting tension of the real thing by clever use of shirts..if the players have their backs to you then they are the opposition. By clever choreography and some great ball handling some great action is played out. The action replays were marvellously observed down to the last detail. As for James' exaggerated headbutt sequence that was sheer poetry in slow motion. The audience cheered when the home team scored and whooped with delight at the celebration song and dance routines.

The uproarious show played out to a packed audience I have never seen so many people of all ages at Spring Street long may these attendance figures continue. Although I suspect if truth be told more than a few came to see James Crossley (Hunter in Gladiators) flex his pecs a mere few feet away from them. An Adonis of the modern age if ever there was one. The new Up'n'Under is an absolute must-see for fans of great comedy and northern humour.

No prior knowledge of the intricacies of Rugby League is needed at all. Another success story for John Godber and his continuing partnership with the unrivalled Hull Truck Theatre.

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