Dad’s Army, with its magic spanning generations and never losing its appeal despite its World War II theme and 1960s roots, was last week brought to life at the Gaiety Theatre in a three-night run, which additionally celebrated the 75th Anniversary of The Service Players.

There might be concern that transposing a long-established television series featuring such beloved characters onto the stage can result in weak caricatures, or the loss of its special charm.

However, this most certainly could not be said of this 30-plus cast, whose interpretation was not only true to the original, but ingenious and inspired.

The source of material was three famous scenes by Jimmy Perry and David Croft: the securing of the German U-Boat crew, the inauguration of ’Mum’s Army’ and the fundraising re-enactment of Lady Godiva’s ride. Cleverly, this selection allowed for mixed-gender casting in what would ordinarily be thought of as a predominantly male affair.

Attention to detail was noticeable, with apt period pieces and props that included Mainwairing’s stick and Pike’s knitted scarf.

Throughout, there was no shortage of stock Dad’s Army comical catchphrases such as ’Don’t tell him Pike’ and ’Stupid Boy’. The intro of ’Who do you think you are kidding Mr Hitler?’ regularly played over speakers had a well-attended Gaiety Theatre toe-tapping.

An inventive conclusion was a replication of the recognisable Dad’s Army credits pre-recorded and projected on a screen. This time, though, the main characters had marched through The Nunnery, rather than ’Walmington-on-Sea’.

It would be impossible to pick out any individual performer. There was no weak link, and congratulations must be extended to everybody involved.

Timing and mannerisms had obviously been studied to a tee.

Characterisation was carried out with such skill that, at times, it was easy to forget that these were only amateur players in a local production.

Geoff Collier was outstanding in the lead role, playing Captain Mainwairing and this wonderful portrayal of a much loved character was undoubtedly a lynchpin of its success.

Review by Zoe Cannell