Review | Our Man in Havana – The Theatre Royal, Bath

Widely regarded as one of the best satirical spy novels. The story follows James Wormold, a British vacuum cleaner salesman in pre-revolutionary Havana, Cuba.

Photo © Jack Merriman

Struggling financially to support his spoiled daughter, Wormold is recruited by MI6 agent Hawthorne to be a spy. Lacking any actual spy skills or intentions, Wormold fabricates an entire network of fictional agents and reports, using his imagination and local bar conversations.

His absurd reports, claiming to depict secret weapons, are taken seriously by MI6, leading to real-world consequences as the Cuban government grows suspicious.

With a cast of four, 3 of whom multi-role at great speed, this comedy has moments of fun, but the energy of the farcical pace needed is often missing.

The constant breaks of script given to narration cause the piece to falter and lose the sense of fun.

The cast are excellent: Jodie Steele leads the charge with a splendid array of quick changes. Alongside Bob Barrett and Leon Ockenden, the trio work tirelessly throughout the production.

Jack Ashton is Wormwold, who morphs stories with great ease, especially as his story catches up with him.

The 50s era is captured well with set and costume design by Julie Godfrey.

No doubt hardened fans will enjoy the opportunity to see the story onstage. The full house gave it a rousing response. The production continues to tour across the UK.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield