Review: One Man, Two Guvnors at the Theatre Royal Haymarket (5 Stars)

One Man, Two Guvnors

Theatre Royal Haymarket

Reviewed on Friday 4th January 2013

"Fired from his skiffle band, Francis Henshall becomes minder to Roscoe Crabbe. But Roscoe is really Rachel, posing as her own dead brother – who’s been killed by her boyfriend Stanley Stubbers. Francis spots the chance of an extra meal ticket and takes a job with one Stanley Stubbers – but to prevent discovery, he must keep his two guvnors apart. Simple."

I have seen quite a few comedies in the West End over the past couple of years, but none as exceptional as One Man, Two Guvnors. The whole show is ridiculous yet intelligent and at moments spontaneous. I guarantee that no matter how miserable or grumpy you feel when arriving at the theatre, you will leave laughing into the night. Richard Bean's play is incredibly unique. One Man, Two Guvnors is the best of the best.

When I recently interviewed Owain Arthur, who is currently starring in the production as Francis Henshall, (but was on holiday when I saw the show) he told me that after a performance someone came up to him and said "This show should be prescribed on the NHS". One Man, Two Guvnors is a good old British farce. Even if you usually prefer tragedies, dramas or musicals everybody enjoys a good farce every now and again. Laughter is such good therapy!

I cannot think of a word to describe just how good Gavin Spokes was as Francis Henshall, (the role which was originally played by James Cordon). He is completely wasted as an understudy! His portrayal seemed so fresh and he built up an unbreakable relationship with the audience. There were moments when audience members simply could not stop howling with laughter. I have never experienced anything like it.

Jodie Prenger performs with grace and experience as Dolly. From starring as Nancy in Oliver and The Lady Of The Lake in Spamalot, Jodie has proven that there is nothing she cannot do. Her loveable personality always shines through and she is ridiculously talented.

I must mention the Theatre Royal Haymarket which is one of my favourite West End theatres. The theatre, which was designed and constructed by John Potter in 1720, has a magical atmosphere and the seats are actually quite comfortable - compared to some other West End theatres!

If you want a couple of hours where you can forget about the troubles of the world and laugh until tears are streaming down your face then you simply must see One Man, Two Guvnors. With a cast full of incredibly talented comedy actors, a hilarious storyline and an outstanding band, One Man, Two Guvnors has all the necessary ingredients for a thoroughly entertaining evening at the theatre.

One Man, Two Guvnors is currently booking until 31st August 2013 at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Please visit www.onemantwoguvnors.com for more information and to book tickets.

Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
andrew@westendframe.com

Click here to read our recent interview with Owain Arthur who is currently playing Francis Henshall in One Man, Two Guvnors.

Photo Credit: Johan Persson

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