Dennis’s Recipe for Disaster, The Customs House Review
Written by Stacy for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Dennis's Recipe for Disaster, currently playing at The Customs House in South Shields, is a delightful family-friendly production that serves up a generous helping of laughter and chaos. Running from February 25th to 27th, 2025, this new adventure features the beloved character Dennis, who finds himself in a culinary conundrum. In this tale, Dennis secures a position at Cooksonville's premier bistro under the watchful eye of the formidable head chef, Gordon Radgie. However, Dennis's lack of culinary skills and the unexpected appearance of a mischievous rat in the kitchen set the stage for a series of humorous mishaps. The narrative is filled with mess and mayhem, making it an ideal half-term treat for audiences of all ages.
Tom Whalley’s script is a masterclass in comedic storytelling, blending sharp dialogue with well-paced physical humour. The script’s wit and clever wordplay keep the energy high, while its slapstick sequences—especially the brilliantly chaotic slop scene—are perfectly timed for maximum laughter. Whalley’s ability to build tension and escalate absurd situations ensures a consistently entertaining experience, and beneath the humour, there’s a warmth to the characters that makes them engaging and relatable. Overall, the script strikes a delightful balance between structured comedy and spontaneous-feeling chaos, making it a joy to watch unfold on stage.
The performances were full of energy, precision, and comedic timing. The cast embraced the play’s fast-paced chaos, delivering sharp dialogue and expertly executed physical comedy with ease. Dennis is the heart of the show’s comedy, a lovable mischief-maker whose energy and charm keep the audience engaged. Glen Richard Townsend delivers a performance full of warmth and wit, balancing Dennis’s chaotic streak with an endearing likeability. His well-timed physical humour and expressive reactions add to the character’s charm, ensuring every moment on stage feels lively and engaging. Whether playfully stirring up trouble or reacting to the unfolding chaos around him, Townsend brings a natural ease to the role, making Dennis a character the audience can’t help but root for.
Lucy Davis was a captivating presence, drawing the audience in with her natural charm and vibrant energy. She struck a perfect balance between sincerity and a playful sense of adventure, making her character both relatable and engaging. Whether delivering heartfelt moments with genuine warmth or embracing the fun and mischief of the story, Davis commanded the stage with a lightness and confidence that made her performance feel effortless. Her chemistry with the rest of the cast added to the show’s charm, and her expressive performance ensured that every moment, from the tender to the comedic, felt sincere and compelling.
Phoebe Carr brought boundless charm to the role of Brie the Rat, delivering a performance that was as loveable as it was lively. With an endearing mix of wide-eyed enthusiasm and playful mischief, she captured the audience’s hearts from the moment she scurried on stage. Her expressive reactions and sweet, animated presence made Brie an irresistible character, full of warmth and whimsy. Whether she was getting tangled up in the action or winning laughs with her cheeky asides, Carr’s performance was filled with infectious energy, making Brie an unforgettable and utterly delightful part of the show.
David McCarthy as Gordon Radgie…..imagine a pantomime villain with the fiery intensity of the actual Gordon Ramsay—an over-the-top, kitchen-dominating tyrant who rules with a sharp tongue and an even sharper wit. Dressed in a chef’s coat and an unconvincing wig, they stalk the stage, barking orders and delivering scathing insults with deliciously exaggerated flair. With every sneer and withering glare, they whip up chaos like a disastrous soufflé, leaving the audience in stitches. Their catchphrases? A mix of menacing threats and ridiculous culinary puns. Equal parts terrifying and hilarious, this Ramsay-esque baddie is a recipe for perfection and McCarthy embodied it to a tee.
The young dancers, choreographed by Jacqui West, brought energy and enthusiasm to the stage, adding an extra layer of charm to the production. Their precision and coordination were impressive, seamlessly integrating movement into the chaos of the show. Whether performing carefully choreographed routines or reacting to the unfolding mayhem, they displayed confidence and stage presence beyond their years. Their involvement added a dynamic visual element, making scenes even more engaging and enhancing the overall theatrical experience. Their dedication and talent were evident, earning them well-deserved applause from the audience.
The slop scene was a standout moment of slapstick brilliance, executed with perfect comedic timing and physical precision. The escalating chaos—spilled ingredients, slipping feet, and flailing limbs—had the audience in fits of laughter. Each mishap was expertly choreographed, with the actors committing fully to the mess and mayhem, ensuring that every tumble and splatter landed with maximum comedic effect. The scene captured the essence of classic slapstick, reminiscent of vaudeville and silent film comedy, making it one of the most memorable highlights of the production.
Dennis’s Recipe for Disaster is a riotous triumph, serving up a perfect blend of sharp wit, well-executed slapstick, and endearing performances. With Tom Whalley’s brilliantly crafted script and a cast that masterfully balances chaos and charm, this production is a half-term treat that the whole family won’t want to miss. From start to finish, it keeps the audience laughing and engaged, proving that sometimes, the best disasters happen on stage.
At The Customs House until 27 February 2025.
★ ★ ★ ★
