Romance in the Air (and on the Doorstep!)
While Arkwright’s shop is the undisputed hub of the neighbourhood’s commerce, it’s also the setting for some of the most charming—and hilariously awkward—romances in Doncaster. From the persistent pursuit of the district nurse to the sweet morning flirtations over a bottle of gold-top, love is always “Open All Hours” at the Little Theatre Southport. Today, we’re looking at the two very different dynamics that keep our leading men on their toes!
Arkwright and Nurse Gladys: A Love Story (of sorts!) Every great comedy needs a touch of romance, though “romance” might be a strong word for the relationship between our favourite miserly grocer and the formidable Nurse Gladys Emmanuel. At the Little Theatre Southport, watching Adrian Miles-Roberts and Karen Parkinson bring this legendary “will-she-won’t-she” (mostly she won’t!) dynamic to life has been a joy.
Karen perfectly captures Gladys’s firm, no-nonsense attitude and sharp wit—the only person capable of stopping Arkwright in his tracks with a single look. Whether he’s attempting a bit of chivalry or just trying to save a penny on a bunch of flowers, Gladys sees right through his schemes. Their chemistry provides some of the show’s most heart-warming—and funniest—moments as Arkwright continues his lifelong quest to win her over.
Granville and the Milk Woman: A Morning Glow
While Arkwright is busy chasing Gladys, Granville has his own romantic distractions. The arrival of the morning milk delivery is the undisputed highlight of Granville’s day, offering a brief, sunny escape from the piles of groceries and his uncle’s endless errands.
Chris Smalley and Zoe Findlay bring a wonderful, bright energy to this sweet flirtation. For Granville, the Milk Woman represents a world of potential beyond the four walls of the shop floor. Their scenes together add a lovely layer of “young love” and aspiration to the production, balancing out the slapstick comedy with a real sense of heart.
Whether you’re coming to see if Arkwright finally manages to charm the nurse, or just to enjoy a bit of morning flirtation over the milk crates, we’d love to have you with us. The shop is stocked, the milk is chilled, and we’re ready to go—just keep your fingers clear of that till when you come in!
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