What The Butler Saw, UK Tour (2024) Review

`Holly Smith as Mrs Prentice, Alex Cardall as Nicholas Beckett © Sheila Burnett`

Written by Stacy for Theatre & Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

In the world of comedy farce there is one that stands out at the top, the gold standard in theatre, and that is Michael Frayn's Noises Off. A wonderfully comedic piece of theatre, that some would say; gave birth to the smash hit The Play That Goes Wrong. Farce is a chaotic brand of comedy, with multiple characters in multiple hilarious miscommunications and mishaps. Joe Orton's What the Butler Saw is one of the greats that started it all back in the 60's. A decade that delivered some classic British comedy, like Dad's Army.

Orton's play is a notorious farce known for its rapid-fire dialogue, chaotic scenarios, and biting satire. Artistic Director Michael Cabot states this is a 'hugely ambitious play. It contains elements of traditional farce...but it takes things a step further...to deliver a scathing critique of establishment values, sexual conservatism and those in power...He simply sees hypocrisy and calls it out. London Classic Theatre's performance, at the Darlington Hippodrome, brought these elements to life with commendable energy and flair, resulting in an evening of uproarious laughter and thought-provoking moments.

The play opens with the psychiatrist Dr. Prentice (played by the impressive John Dorney) attempting to seduce his prospective secretary, Geraldine Barclay (Alana Jackson), under the guise of a job interview. Dorney’s portrayal of Dr. Prentice captured the character’s insatiable charm and mounting desperation with impeccable comic timing. His physical comedy and facial expressions were a delight to watch, adding layers of hilarity to the already absurd situations.

Jackson, as Geraldine Barclay, shone in a promising light. Her ability to flow freely between innocence and bewilderment was key to maintaining the farce's pace. She navigated the increasingly ludicrous plot twists with bravery, making her character both sympathetic and comically engaging.

In an equally impressive performance, was Holly Smith, as Mrs. Prentice. Smith embodied the character's domineering and manipulative nature with a ferocity that was both intimidating and hysterically funny. Her interactions with Dr. Rance (Jack Lord), the government inspector with a penchant for diagnosing madness where there is none, was particularly memorable. Lord's portrayal of Dr. Rance, with his exaggerated self-importance and relentless absurdity, was a masterclass in farcical acting. A mention must go out to Alex Cardall and Jon-Paul Rowden who completed the remaining members of a strong cast, producing memorable moments in an evening of chaos, mayhem and madness.

Director Michael Cabot handled the play’s complex choreography and timing in a clever manner. Farce relies heavily on precise timing and quick pacing, and Cabot managed to keep the performance tight and engaging. The actors’ entrances and exits were impeccably timed, maintaining the chaotic rhythm that Orton’s script demands.

The set design by Bek Palmer, looked like an artistically inspired love child of Monty-Python's Terry Gilliam, and effectively captured the clinical coldness of the psychiatrist's office, while allowing for the necessary physical comedy. The clever use of doors, an essential element in any farce, added to the visual humour and confusion, contributing significantly to the play’s success.

One minor critique would be the occasional moments where the dialogue’s rapid pace led to a few missed lines. However, these instances were rare and did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the performance.

What The Butler Saw was a farcical feast, that certainly delivered. It honoured Orton’s sharp wit and subversive humour, delivering a night of entertainment that left the audience in stitches. The subject matter may sit on the wrong side of comfortable for a modern audience. However, the performance highlighted the talent and dedication of the cast and crew. For those who appreciate clever, chaotic comedy, this production is an absolute must-see.