‘Nobody’s Perfect’ – this may be true, but the Rossendale Players, now in their 90th year, are very close to that ultimate state of being in this stunning production.

Yes, Nobody’s Perfect, the hilarious play by Simon Williams, is yet another showcase for the talented amateurs to prove their credentials are still as strong as ever nine decades after first forming.

This latest offering in their remarkable anniversary year it should note be noted has not been without difficulties, not least when a key cast member had to withdraw at the last minute for personal reasons.

In a story that features just four main characters, for most stage productions that would have meant curtains, but inspired by 90 years of performing, the current generation of Players insisted the show must go on, and director Dawn Rowe heroically stepped in to the breach to save the day.

Stephen Claxon, Emmeline Greenwood and Steve Gill star in Nobody's Perfect for the Rossendale Players at the New Millennium Theatre, Burnley Road East, Waterfoot

placeholder image — Stephen Claxon, Emmeline Greenwood and Steve Gill star in Nobody's Perfect for the Rossendale Players at the New Millennium Theatre, Burnley Road East, Waterfoot

It was quite fortunate that Dawn’s character, the formidable Harriet Copeland, the matriarch of a feminist publishing company with an ethos of publishing books “for women, by women”, was able to sit behind a desk reading manuscripts, or in reality the script, throughout the first half.

This is not to play down Dawn’s contribution. To step up at such short notice, whilst also directing, was no mean feat, and while the second half allowed for less disguise, Dawn’ performance did not subtract from what was a triumphant production.

Rossendale Players deliver warmth and wit in “A Month of Sundays”

Now, back to that feminist publishing company, and herein lies the whole basis of the story, and indeed the comedy, Harriet receives a winning manuscript from shy, retiring, uptight statistician Leonard Loftus, whose saucy love romantic page turner naturally arrives with the female pseudonym of Myrtle Banbury.

Chaos and hilarity ensues when a lucrative contract arrives on condition that Harriet must meet ‘Myrtle’, played wonderfully by regular Stephen Claxon in a fetching frock.

Stephen’s usual high-energy style is perfect for the role of Leonard-Myrtlye, matched with equal gusto in the form of the character’s father Gus, played by Steve Gill, with a touch of Albert Steptoe.

Indeed, Steve and Stephen are positively side-splitting together, aided and abetted by Players debutant Emmeline Greenwood, playing Leonard’s daughter Dee-Dee, who again garners plenty of laughs.

The show, tender and warm, is running at the New Millennium Theatre, Waterfoot, at 7-30pm until Saturday, September 12th.