Noises Off returns to the Theatre Royal this week, following its triumphant run last year.
Dan Fredenburgh as Garry, Liza Goddard as Dotty and Matthew Kelly as Selsdon | Photo © Pamela Raith Photography
The unique show, which reflects a hapless group of actors, struggling with a terrible script and off stage personal issues raises many laughs.
The clever staging ensures we see every angle both on and off stage.
The cast works hard to generate the fun, the energy is high and the pace frantic. Directed by Lindsay Posner and designed by Simon Higlett there is much to like in this production.
Liza Goddard as Dotty is great fun, losing sardines at most opportunities whilst Simon Shepherd is the exhausted Director struggling to find his way through to opening night.
Dan Fredenburgh (Garry Lejeune) and Lisa Ambalavanar (Brooke Ashton) are seeking a lover’s hideway in a house that is supposedly empty.
Matthew Kelly returns as Selsdon and is in fine form as the drunken thief; alongside the all-suffering stage crew Daniel Rainford as Tim Allgood and Nikhita Lesler as Poppy.
The usual farcical elements of doors and trousers dropping are out in force with much innuendo mainly focused on Simon Coates as Frederick Fellowes; scared of blood and a fear of the Inland Revenue.
The audience clearly enjoyed much of the performance and no doubt it will continue on its successful run.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield
