REVIEW: ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS

Thornden School, Southampton

I first saw this in the West End, dubious that it would be my sort of comedy. Turns out I’m less sophisticated than I’d like to imagine, as I roared with laughter. Recently released for amateur groups, I’m happy to say that I’m no less enamoured. The show was carried by the accomplished lead, Francis Henshall (Maddie Matthews), whose hunger pangs with a side of pickle, wrought havoc and laughs in equal measures, and who interacted effortlessly with the audience and her Guvnors, toff Stanley Stubbers (Joe Holden-Brown) and duplicitous Rachel Crabbe (Immie Crabtree). The slapstick scenes at the end of the first act were performed with physical comedy and pace, with Alfie (Oliver Jones) and Christine (Sophie Hubbard) playing their parts convincingly. There were some nice directorial touches during scene changes that enabled the wider cast a chance to show off their talents, and the collective principals made the most of their roles. Lighting, sound and set complemented the story, and supported an enjoyable evening.

Rebecca Case