Michael Frayn’s ‘Noises Off’ is 41 years old this year, and yet it still manages to hold the audience in stiches from start to finish. Even after all this time, it remains a highly entertaining and truly hilarious comedy.
In the very unlikely event that the reader is unfamiliar with the storyline, it is a farce within a farce, following the comedic and highly energetic mishaps of a small time theatre company as they perform a fictional play, “Nothing On”. Frayn’s expertly crafted script, filled with puns, innuendo, snappy one-liners, and physical comedy, keeps the audience in fits of laughter throughout, and this latest version’s pacing is spot-on, with expertly choreographed action, and impeccable timing of jokes, which is a testament to Lindsay Posner’s skilful direction and the brilliant and seasoned cast’s combined skills.
The cast were exceptionally good, with every performer bringing something different to the show, all able to deliver their lines and physical comedy with precision, making it seem as if they have been performing together as a cast for years. Particularly brilliant was Felicity Kendall in the role of Dotty Otley, approaching retirement, on her final regional tour, and with a financial stake in the success of the play. Kendall is perfectly cast and shows impeccable comedic timing throughout. Another genius casting decision was the ever-wonderful Tracy-Ann Oberman as Belinda Blair, Oberman is only in the play for a few short weeks, but she truly embodied the mischievous, gossip-driven Belinda and delivered a restrained lightness to her humour that was really well received in the moments of total chaos that are associated with this play.
Speaking of chaos, in total contrast to Oberman’s restraint, the true star of the show is the entirely brilliant Joseph Millson as lead actor Garry Lejeune. In every sense of the word, he dominated the stage, in what was a masterclass in physical comedy and farce. For sure he takes the lion’s share of the stunts, running up and down stairs, bursting through doors and delivering on what were actually some well thought out stunts. By the end of the show, he was dripping in sweat, a testament to the total commitment he gives to his role, an absolute superstar and a pleasure to watch.
With ‘Noises Off’, the perfection of the set design and props are also key factors in measuring the success of the play, and Simon Higlett (Designer) with Katy Clare Brooks (Props Supervisor) have not disappointed, creating a work of art, featuring a two-storey set that provided a seamless transition between the on and off-stage action across the three different acts.
‘Noises Off’ is not only a comedic masterpiece, it also carries a deeper meaning, it’s a commentary on the nature of theatre and those who make it happen, a play about what goes on behind the scenes, the chaos and laughter, the relationships, the passion and tears that are poured into every production. It is profound in that it shows the humanity of being a performer and yet blissfully funny at the same time. However, the play’s climax is famous, and this production doesn’t disappoint, with a dizzy and chaotic frenzied Act 3 that had the audience in hysterics, a perfect culmination of the play’s comedic elements.
‘Noises Off’ is highly recommend to anyone looking for a good laugh and a night of entertainment as it will keep you laughing long after you leave the theatre. It runs at The Phoenix Theatre, London until 11th March 2023. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.thephoenixtheatre.co.uk/noises-off
Reviewer: Alan Stuart Malin
Reviewed: 25th January 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★