Review

Relatively Speaking

There are moments when, for every intellectually challenging or innovative piece of theatre you see a classic comedy is just the thing and Ayckbourn’s drama of mis-identity is the answer. The plot is perhaps simplistic but it is his ability to identify the frailty of the human condition and deliver it in dialogue that seldom strays from the naturalistic that raises it above lesser work.

Of course this is equally dependent on the quality of performance. Here we had a talented cast that made the evening seamlessly funny. Robert Powell never fails to deliver a convincing performance, from the dry and dark satire of Charles III to the light comedy of Ayckbourn he nails it. Lisa Goddard is joyous as the dippy and yet knowing housewife and is mistress of the wistful expression.

This is Ayckbourn delivered with both style and skill by a cast that have the talent to milk every last twist and laugh from this simple farce.

Theatre Royal Brighton,
6 September, 2016
Andrew Kay
4 Stars