Relatively Speaking
Currently at the Wyndham's Theatre
(reviewed at the Milton Keynes Theatre the week prior to the West End transfer)
(reviewed at the Milton Keynes Theatre the week prior to the West End transfer)
Reviewed on Monday 6th May 2013
Relatively Speaking is a play about mystery, confusion, secrets, lies and misunderstandings. Although I have seen many Alan Ayckbourn plays this was my first time seeing a production of Relatively Speaking and it is amazing to see how Alan Ayckbourn's writing has stood the test of time. I was laughing so hard that at one point I had to try and calm myself down so as to not draw attention to myself.
The show begins by introducing the younger couple, Ginny (played by Kara Tointon) and Greg (played by Max Bennett). The scene is fast paced and it becomes clear that Ginny is keeping a few secrets. Throw in some naked comedy and straight away the entire audience is intrigued and in stitches. Ginny tells Greg that she is going to visit her parents alone but Greg secretly plans to go too so he can ask them for their permission to marry Ginny. However, it turns out Ginny is not actually visiting her parents...
I could not believe how fast paced the entire show is, when the house lights came up after the second act ended I could not believe it was already the interval - I was almost a little disappointed as I was enjoying myself immensely. The two hours flew by! The play is hugely animated, my only complaint is that the first few minutes of the second act felt a little static.
Peter McKintosh's design is highly impressive, the detailed scenery is completely transformed during the short gap between Act One and Act Two. The set really makes it feel as if you are peeking in on these people's lives. A large map is printed on the curtain which stimulated much discussion before the show and during the interval - what a great idea!
All four cast members are absolutely outstanding. Felicity Kendal (who plays Sheila) performs so naturally and looks so at home on stage. She portrays both Sheila's playful and vulnerable sides to perfection. It is also hard to fault Jonathan Coy's performance as Phlip who is the 'unlikeable character' in the play.
Kara Tointon is best known for starring in Eastenders and winning Strictly Come Dancing and she shows no sign of holding back on stage as Ginny. Kara gives a feisty performance and it was hilarious watching Ginny digging herself deeper and deeper into trouble. However, without doubt it is Max Bennett who gives the stand out performance as Greg, a character who is blinded by love. Greg never quite knows what is going on but always tries to take control of the situation. Max Bennet gives a slick, solid performance and really makes the audience feel for him. Each tiny detail of his portrayal was perfect and completely believable.
I must mention how stunning the Milton Keynes Theatre is. This was my first visit to the stylish, modern theatre and while it lacks the atmospheric feel of the old London theatres, the spacious venue feels incredibly luxurious and the piano bar is a wonderful touch.
Alan Ayckbourn's writing is nothing but pure genius Cleverly, the audience always know more than any of the characters which makes the play even more ridiculous and at times hilariously frustrating to watch. What I loved most is that as Relatively Speaking concludes, one or two questions are left unanswered, leaving the audience to make up their own minds about a few things...
Relatively Speaking is a classic play and this production directed by the fabulous Lindsay Posner is world class. A must see.
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
Relatively Speaking runs at the Milton Keynes Theatre until 11th May 2013. Click here for tickets.
The play then transfers to the West End's Wyndhams Theatre, beginning previews on 14th May and running until 28th June 2013. Click here to book tickets
Photo Credit: Catherine Ashmore
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