Liverpool Sound & Vision Rating: * * *

Cast: Michael Swift, John Doull.

If you have ever wondered what kind of jobs out of work actors will do, then John Godber’s play The Debt Collectors gives you a good insight into just how desperate some people can be when looking for work. When a vacancy opens up for debt recovery, actors Spud (John Doull) and Loz (Michael Swift) think that they are the perfect pair for the role, with no hint of any acting work and broke to boot they throw themselves into demanding money from the good citizens of Liverpool. Along the way, they discover some home truths and are reminded of just how lucky they actually are.

The Debt Collectors is the Liverpool Actors Studio latest in house production directed by Artistic Director Barrie Ryan English. As in true Godber style, the script has plenty of wonderful one-liners, designed for speedy delivery and quick reactions, but it seemed that as Michael Swift was setting them up, then John Doull was knocking them down. It was a shame that there were crossing over of lines, as the funnier gags were lost and consequently the lines didn’t seem too flow, leaving gaps in dialogue that were awkward to fill. Things settled down however, and there are moments were the pair seem too find their stride which allowed the natural comedy to peep through.

Good use was made of the stage, with various bits and bobs lying around, and they were used effectually. Both Mr. Swift and Mr. Doull doubled up on some parts, characters that they try unsuccessfully to collect money from which bought giggles from the audience. Costume changes were done quickly whilst the pair fell in and out of the different characters easily, and delivered some of the funnier lines of the night.

Sharper delivery of lines would pick up the pace, and would definitely make this production funnier, but Michael Swift and John Doull pull together well to deliver a show that has promise.

Janie Phillips