The Ladykillers, based on the 1955 film, is a kitchen-sink meets gangster comedy play written by Graham Linehan in 2011. While this adaptation is surprisingly a contemporary work, Edinburgh People’s Theatre captures all the dry, yet subtly slapstick, and indisputably British charm of the original film. Performing at the Church Hill Theatre this week, The Ladykillers showcases the typical domestic dramedy style that Edinburgh People’s Theatre seem to gravitate towards. And it’s no wonder why they often choose this style of play, as it certainly compliments their cast. Val Lennie plays the very proper, yet slightly befuddled Mrs Wilberforce, who has somehow managed to house and aid a gang of vicious criminals with no knowledge of it. Lennie is a strong lead, playing to both Mrs Wilberforce’s senile paranoia and her firm dedication to being an upstanding citizen. This innocent act is complimented well by our gang of misfits, who each had a very distinct and outrageous character. From the stern-faced and cold hitman to the boyish, pill-popper, Ade Smith led the gang as Professor Marcus – seemingly the only one in the operation with brains. Both curt and yet civilised, Smith was a great match to play alongside Lennie, as were the rest of the cast who each gave such gusto to their performances.
The set was decidedly huge for an amateur company, with a replica of the old lady’s living room and a set of stairs leading up to Marcus’ quarters on a raised platform upstage. This setup was ideal for multi-action moments, with Mrs Wilberforce sat quietly reading the newspaper in the foreground while the gang plotted their crime. This juxtaposition worked well and could have even been used to more of an extreme if they leaned into more of a physical comedy style.
Although for the most part this was directed as a very straight up and down play, there were some stylistic elements that did attempt to stray further away from the classic humdrum style of kitchen sink drama. Lighting was used to cast shadows of the figures as they walked on to Mrs WIlberforce’s rooftop, allowing for a bigger dramatisation of the character’s deaths. This seemed to be almost a nod to film noir and added another layer of interest to the somewhat dry play. I think if the lighting was used in more abstract ways such as this it could have really benefited the production – making certain moments darker and shadowier would have really lended itself to the nature of the play. I think this aspect definitely could have been used more creatively.
In all, The Ladykillers delivers exactly what it says on the package – we get what we expect. The performances really added amusement to the play and I almost think that without this acting standard, the play could have easily fallen short. I would love to see some stronger production choices in the future but nonetheless this was still a strong show – Edinburgh People’s Theatre are certainly experienced in delivering plays to a very consistent standard.
Reviewer: Jessie Martin
Reviewed: 18th March 2026
North West End UK Rating: