Review: One Man Two Guvnors – Theatre Royal

An award winning national theatre production, One Man Two Guvnors is the funniest thing I have ever seen! Be warned, this will be less of a review than a thinly veiled advert for comic bliss.

As we walked in to the theatre at the start of the night we were entertained by quirky rhythms brought to us by The Craze. A classy, multi-talented band whose musical interludes were as inventive as they were musically satisfying. The curtains went up and we were introduced to the striking Dolly, a straight talkin, straight thinkin northern lass played by the beautiful Emma Barton. Here we meet here employer’s family, whose daughter’s engagement party is where the action begins.

Emma Barton, Norman Pace and Derek Elroy NTOneMan2Guvs, photo by Pamela Raith

A multi award winning show, One Man Two Guvnors delivers on all levels. Based on Carlo Goldoni’s classic, The Servant Of Two Masters, Richard Bean’s version is set in 60’s Brighton and follows hungry man Francis Henshall, secretly serving two masters simultaneously whilst trying to find time to eat lunch does not turn out to be as easy or as fruitful as Francis had hoped. Hilariously brought to life by Gavin Spokes, Francis chases that elusive meal whilst serving the whims of his cruel masters. One on the run for murder, the other a gangster back from the underworld chasing his vengeance. Gavin steals the show with the quality of his character, some outstanding acting and an infectious wit and charm.

A special mention must go to Michael Dylan who shines as Alfie, the eighty five year old butler who arrives ready for his first day with pacemaker in hand. His character is reminiscent of Manuel from Fawlty Towers, the Portuguese waiter with bad luck and a worse boss.

Full of witty one liners, great music, fantastic acting and with a brilliantly written script, delivered with professionalism and an eccentric sense of humour, One Man Two Guvnors is a must. This show is a gripping, enthralling, belly wrenching night out for anyone who loves theatre, laughing or life.

Currently playing at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham, the show is touring the UK with their final show in Wolverhampton on the 21st March.

Review by Abdul Khan

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