Possum Trot Review

November 17, 2025

Possum Trot Review

12th-29th November 2025

Possum Trot is one of the Tabard Theatre’s first productions after winning the prestigious London Pub Theatre of the Year 2025 award at the London Pub Theatre Awards last month, and once again, I’m glad to say, they delivered another gem.

“…sit back and enjoy being swept up in this heart-warming tale”

Award-winning writer Kathy Rucker has encapsulated a timeless tale of community, family, and changing times in this play. Set in a small town in Nebraska, the story follows a family headed-up by matriarch and diner-owner Maxine (Sarah Berger), after the passing of her husband. We are introduced to the characters at his wake in the diner, and are exposed to the difficult dynamics between them, with the small turnout and sad sandwiches available showcasing the realities of rural living.

The play touches upon the troubles of climate change, a fast-moving culture that causes us to question tradition, and parental expectations that might not feel realistic anymore. In spite of all this, the characters still find connection through the generations and demonstrate touching relationships that reach beyond rural America.

I found the story sweet and enjoyable, with an intricate set, costumes, and lighting that the Tabard Theatre has become known for. Near the beginning, there’s a scene where the family must go into a bunker to shelter from an incoming tornado. They hold lamps up to their faces and the small white light that emits in the darkness is atmospheric and visually stunning.

In terms of the performance, Todd Boyce as Duane was a particular stand out for me. He delivered some fantastic, eye-rolling puns and the loving sincerity he had for his life-long crush on Maxine, and his protectiveness over her granddaughter, Billie, was lovely to see. Although he was the only outsider of the family, he felt like a safe pair of hands on stage making him incredibly enjoyable to watch.

Maxine’s daughter, Pru (Dani Arlington), and her husband, Jeremiah (Nikolas Salmon), both owners of a farm, also did a brilliant job of showcasing a relationship whose love is being tested by outside struggles, financial responsibilities, and internal turmoil. It was honest and raw, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Similarly, Billie (Nev Francis), their phone-addict, mildly hypochondriac teenage daughter, was fantastic at showing the difficulties of someone coming-of-age in the technological era.

Ultimately, despite its rural American setting, Possum Trot spotlights themes that are universal, and you’ll be sure to find a piece of yourself on the stage. Just sit back and enjoy being swept up in this heart-warming tale.

Possum Trot is at the Tabard Theatre until 29th November.