They say history has a way of repeating itself. Theatres may have been temporarily closed by covid in our lifetimes but, in 1642, it was the Puritan sensibilities that prompted a 20year ban on public acting.
And so tonight, we are immersed into the end of that period, in the company of Bang Tidy Theatre, whose three performers are embracing the new style of Restoration theatre, a much more vulgar and libertine style than audiences were used to.
Directed by Helen Tennison, it’s a chaotic, bawdy affair, melding 21st century and Restoration language (reminding all that spectacular swearing isn’t a modern invention). We meet Neil Hasbeen (Laurie Coldwell), Mary Moralless (Chloe Darke) and Isabinda McLovealot (Susannah Scott) seemingly happy to be back on stage with their play “A Lord Names Brobert”.
Our troupe works incredibly well together blending verbose dialogue with slick physical comedy. They also have no qualms in prompting groans of discomfort alongside the sniggers, dangling the audience at the edge of total gross out via raw eggs and talcum powder, before just about reigning them back in.
Each character has their own personal baggage to deal with, living up their names. Neil is literally falling apart at the seams as he slowly succumbs to plague. Mary is reeling from the emotional effects of a backstreet abortion and Isabinda must deal with her unrequited love for Mary and an exploration of gender identity (and Scott’s handling of this story line is particularly sweet and engaging).
One can draw some thin parallels to today’s societal issues (perhaps less so in terms of actual leprosy) and Hasbeen reflects on how nothing seems to have changed in the last 400 years.
But within the confines of 70minutes it’s better to sit and enjoy the merry dance we are taken on amongst the minimally dressed set of underwear and white cushions. The patchwork, fast-paced dialogue doesn’t really allow you to reflect on any home truths, but it remains a thoroughly entertaining, ribald work with a few moments that might just make you laugh your socks off.
For What’s On at Shakespeare North Playhouse, visit https://shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk/
Reviewer: Lou Steggals
Reviewed: 3rd May 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★