If there was ever evidence needed that an actor’s lot is hard work, here it is. This physical production brings clowning, slapstick and acrobatics together in a hilarious fast-paced laugh out loud couple of hours.
Created by Mischief Theatre, the team behind The Play that Goes Wrong, the same mayhem follows as Conley Polytechnic Drama Society attempt to present their Christmas production (strictly not a panto) of J M Barrie’s Peter Pan amid power struggles in the cast, love stories and issues with set design that results in total chaos.
There was so much to laugh about but highlights among highlights were the underwater scene, along with the breaking bunk beds.
A true ensemble piece – but a couple of mentions: Laurence Pears as Chris Bean (Captain Hook) is standout funny descending into Basil Fawlty style lunacy while dear Max Bennett (played by Matt Cavendish) shows how we love to love an underdog.
How the cast manages to sustain the physicality, script and straight faces – is awe-inspiring. Drama students would benefit from an afternoon of fun – and an insight into physical theatre at its best. Go and see it.
The tour continues until September, while the Play That Goes Wrong is currently enjoying an extended run at the Duchess Theatre, London.
Review by Lesley Finlay