REVIEW | Noises Off, UK Tour
Dan Fredenburgh (Garry), Lucy Robinson (Belinda), Daniel Rainford (Tim), Paul Bradley (Selsdon), Lisa Ambalavanar (Brooke), Nikhita Lesler (Poppy), Liza Goddard (Dotty), Daniel Rainford (Tim), Simon Coates (Frederick) Credit - Pamela Raith.Written by Natasha
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Confession time: Noises Off isn’t something I would have chosen to see had it not been for this reviewing opportunity. I have to say that the words ‘farce’ and ‘popular comedy’ don’t usually endear me to a show. Even though I always try to go into every production with an open mind, I wondered if this might be a dated Carry-On style play that wouldn’t appeal to me.
What I should have perhaps realised, however, is that something created by the talent that is Michael Frayn would offer several layers of drama, humour and entertainment. Noises Off manages to be both clever and a crowd pleaser as well as including numerous pleasing nods to anyone who has ever worked in theatre. Yes, this is a farce and there are several mentions of bedrooms and relationship entanglement, but it is so cleverly done that it is a comedy of errors of Shakespearean calibre, wonderfully choreographed and acted as well as beautifully written. Rather than being past its sell-by date, the play can be viewed as a 1980s classic which still has the power to captivate. (That’s not to say it is timeless. Due to its subject matter the script, although ironic and self-aware, relies largely on heterosexual stereotypes.
From a 2024 perspective the lack of explicit inclusion and exploration of sexuality and gender is conspicuous. There’s a similar problem in terms of ethnic representation - some attempt has been made to redress this in the casting, but even more diversity here would be welcome.)
The first act opens with the magnificent Liza Goddard taking to the stage in her role as Dotty. Before too long, however, the audience will realise that Dotty is a character in a play within the play. We are presented with ‘Nothing On’, a farcical comedy which is being performed by a regional touring company who slide in and out of character during rehearsal and performances. This arch trampling of the fourth wall is both fascinating and funny, as the audience gets to know both the characters being directed and the characters of the actors playing them. If this sounds confusing, then try watching it! Half the fun is trying to keep up with the fast-paced comedic plot of the farce, interspersed with the behind the scenes drama that unfolds, veering between subtly and raucously funny. Particularly impressive is the second act’s inversion of the set, giving us a behind the scenes point of view combined with another run through of the play within the play that descends into chaos. Seriously - try watching it! It had the audience and myself frequently either howling or crying with laughter and leaving the theatre in a feelgood mood.
Noises Off is witty and inventive, in terms of plot, dialogue and sheer audacity as Frayn plays with genres such as slapstick, the anarchy of Ealing comedies, black humour and screwball sitcoms. The production is perfectly executed by an extremely talented ensemble company with impeccable timing and comedic chops including restraint and understatement where necessary. The production provides a non-stop riotous evening of entertainment. Seriously - try watching it!
Noises Off plays at the Theatre Royal Nottingham until Saturday 3 February and then heads to Chester, Cheltenham and Oxford.
