Bedroom Farce – The Mill at Sonning

Nestled on a picturesque spot over a water mill, The Mill at Sonning offers a charming escape only a short train ride from London. This gorgeous venue, celebrated as “Most Welcoming Theatre” three years in row, offers a tasty lunch, delightful scenery and impeccable service from an attentive staff both in the restaurant and at the theatre.

Now if one cannot recommend this dinner theatre enough – one of the very few in the country – its lively charm stood in stark contrast to the underwhelming performance of Alan Ayckbourn’s Bedroom Farce, under the direction of Robin Herford. Set across three different apartments over one chaotic night, the play explores the entangled lives of four couples, each grappling with their own neuroses and relational issues.

While Ayckbourn’s intent may have been to offer a humorous exploration of domesticity and gender roles, the execution fell short. His men largely exhibit ‘old-fashioned’ masculinity, indulging in activities like building furniture and taking business calls in the middle of the night. They show little emotional maturity, boundaries, or concern for their wives’ needs—one of whom is even described as ‘beautifully uncomplicated.'”

Among the characters, the senior couple (Julia Hills and Stuart Fox) stand out as quaintly endearing. Their quirks and healthy relationship provide a refreshing contrast to the farcical antics of the younger couples. Unfortunately, Trevor (Ben Porter) and Susannah (Allie Croker), the troublemakers, were gratingly caricatural. Croker’s portrayal, with its overly dramatic physicality and childish voice, was more distracting than comedic. The lack of psychological nuance between Jan (Georgia Burnell) and Nick (Damien Matthews) was further highlighted by Nick’s exaggerated self-pity around his back issue. The final couple, played by Antony Eden and Rhiannon Handy, began with sweet promise but ultimately fell into clichéd and unremarkable territory.

Despite the performance’s shortcomings, The Mill at Sonning remains a lovely venue that well deserves a visit.

Playing until 21st September, https://millatsonning.com/shows/bedroom-farce/

Reviewer: Klervi Gavet

Reviewed: 10th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: