It doesn't matter how often I see this play, I always enjoy it. But this production definitely ranks as the best one ever!
Brian Bedford was at his arch best as Lady Bracknell - totally in control of every nod and every look. Mike Sharra is one of the best physical comedians around and his Algernon gave him every opportunity to demonstrate his talent. He was a perfect foil for Ben Carlson, who manages to be funny in a serious kind of way. Sara Topham and Andrea Runge were perfectly matched as Gwendolyn and Cecily.
The sets by Desmond Healey were fabulous, especially when you took a close look a realized what they were made from. Amazing use of found stuff ( plastic glasses and duct tape for example) to create beautiful looks.
This is a lovely play and apparently bulletproof, but this production did not need any excuses - it is probably as close to perfect as you can get.
ReplyDeleteBedford apparently had his pick for the cast, and did an excellent job, particularly with the Shaw graduates, Mike Sharra and Ben Carlson. Also the "girls" were nicely differentiated (they tend to blur in some productions) and Topham should live in these clothes, they suit her so well. As director, Bedford also did a marvelous job of keeping his star (Bedford) in check, he played with a subtlety that has sometimes been missing from recent roles.
All-in-all, a delight.