This two-hander comedy is an absolute gem. A close examination of the pitfalls of an empty nest, grown children, grandchildren and the worry of “what now?”.
Griff Rhys Jones as Peter and Janie Dee as Laura in An Hour And A Half Late | Photo © Marc Brenner
Janie Dee and Griff Rhys Jones star in this funny and poignant portrait of a couple whose life changes direction as a five-minute conversation throws their evening into anarchy, chaos and moments of deep reflection.
There are the usual crisis talks about ageing and the changes in the home dynamic but there is great heart and love at its core which is both joyful and touching.
Directed with great precision by Belinda Lang, the pristine lounge is carnage by the end of the evening but so much has passed for the couple.
Both performers relish the comedy, the silence and the deep worries with ease. They are well cast and utterly believable as a partnership.
Rhys Jones is very funny; his physical comedy and timing is equally matched by Dee who finds humour and deep pain in the smallest of actions to great effect.
Whilst this play may be more relevant to people of a certain age, the issues are so real and resonate deeply.
It is a very good conversation opener and an excellent example of how easy it is to miss each other amid the duties of work, caring and a growing family.
The feelings of loss and despair as a mother whose role has become redundant is nicely met by the excitement of the Father, nearly retirement, and the ability to enjoy a good dessert trolley.
The hour and a half, as the title suggests, passes by in a blink and in so many ways, this device drives a beautifully crafted and compact play which is an opportunity to see a masterclass in performance from two actors at the very top of their game.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield
An Hour and a Half Late is showing at the Theatre Royal in Bath until Saturday 26th February 2022.
