Phil Hammond and Dame Clare Gerada:  Fifty Minutes to Save the NHS – The Space @ Surgeons’ Hall

Well, this is a show that achieved the impossible!  I still can’t quite figure out how discussions of subjects such as assisted dying and addiction seriously informed and engaged the audience, whilst making them properly belly laugh time and time again. 

This show is an impressive piece of work.  No doubt about it.  The fast paced banter and sparky chemistry between these two eminent doctors – unmistakably authentic, evidently passionate – was right up there with Morecambe (Phil Hammond, step forward) and Wise (Clare Gerada, you played the straight woman as easy as breathing). 

The well prepared method of delivery also allowed the voices of fellow members of the NHS to be heard – some serious, some hilarious, some outrageous, all raw, moving and honest.

 Memorably funny, informative in that compassionate non-preachy way, and motivational, with a low key twist, this is a show with real purpose, with real heart – all profits going to the Doctors in Distress charity. 

Reviewer: Susan Cohen

Reviewed: 5th August 2024

North west End UK Rating: