Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time! 

"The Armageddon Chair: A Comedic Introduction to Cosmic Explorers”

Bernice Summerfield’s adventures begin anew with a witty, character-driven tale that blends humour and mystery in a galactic social club.

A Club Unlike Any Other

The Armageddon Chair, written by James Goss, kicks off The Eternity Club series with a lighthearted and comedic tone. Benny finds herself joining the titular Eternity Club, an eclectic group of intergalactic explorers. However, her membership comes with a catch: unpaid dues. Benny's predicament—being relegated to chores—immediately sets the comedic tone for the story.

The Eternity Club itself is brimming with quirky characters, from a disgruntled Sontaran and a dethroned Drahvin queen to a charmingly aloof cyborg (312, brought to life by Simon Kane) and even a talking tree. These larger-than-life personalities provide fertile ground for humour, with Benny’s quick wit clashing against the club’s strict social etiquette.

A Chair, a Knee, and a Past to Uncover

At the heart of the story is Benny’s accidental offense: sitting in 312’s sacred chair and tinkering with its malfunctioning knee joint. This seemingly small act catalyses the plot, as Benny endeavours to make amends by delving into 312’s mysterious past. Along the way, she unravels the personal histories of her fellow club members, creating moments of both hilarity and heartfelt connection.

The narrative doesn’t take itself too seriously, which works to its advantage. While the solution to the cyborg’s memory troubles is relatively straightforward, it effectively serves the story's goal of introducing the audience to the diverse cast and their dynamics.

An Intriguing Mystery

Amid the comedy, a subtle layer of mystery emerges. The club’s oldest member, an enigmatic, cobweb-covered elder confined to her chair, harbours knowledge of Benny’s past. This shadowy connection hints at a larger narrative to come, adding depth and intrigue to an otherwise breezy tale.

Performance Highlights

Lisa Bowerman’s portrayal of Benny is as sharp and delightful as ever. Her comedic timing and knack for navigating absurd situations make her the perfect anchor for this whimsical story. Simon Kane’s performance as 312 adds warmth and charm, while the supporting cast of eccentric alien explorers keeps the dialogue lively and engaging.

Verdict: A Promising Start

The Armageddon Chair is a strong opener for The Eternity Club, deftly balancing humour, character introductions, and a hint of mystery. While the plot itself may lack complexity, the story’s colourful cast and sharp writing make it an enjoyable and accessible entry point for this series of adventures.

📝Verdict: 69/100