Review: HOME, I’M DARLING, Malvern Theatres - Tour

Following sold-out performances at the National Theatre and in the West End, and having won an Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, Home, I’m Darling is now embarking on a UK tour.

Written by Laura Wade and directed by Tamara Harvey, Home, I’m Darling tells the story of one woman’s quest to be the perfect 1950’s housewife. Except it is not the 1950’s anymore and is it plausible that this concept is both practical and positive for the age of the noughties.

Jessica Ransom plays Judy, married to Johnny (Neil McDermott). She is the epitome of housewife chic, preparing her husband’s meals, cocktails and running a ship shape house. Played impeccably with an air of ‘Stepford Wife’ and a touch of The Truman Show. McDermott is equally impressive, with an inkling of wanting to fit in with the modern world, whilst desperately trying not to admit it to himself or anyone else around him.

Cassie Bradley as Fran (Judy’s best friend) supplies comic relief as she tries to encourage her friend in her quest, whilst also hiding the persona of a swearing, modern thinker, and Diane Keen as Sylvia (Judy’s mum) is delightful as she strives to make her daughter face the reality that her ‘lifestyle’ is setting women back after fighting so hard to gain their equal rights.

It’s a cleverly written script, delivered brilliantly by the complete cast which makes this production entertaining and captivating throughout. With intricate set and costume design by Anna Fleischle, transporting us into Judy’s world, it is easy to see why the lure of the retro era is so gripping.

It shows us just how far some principles have evolved and how some attitudes have clearly not!

Charming, relatable, and evocative.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin

Home, I’m Darling plays at Malvern Theatre until 4 March and continues to tour until 13 May, with tickets for select touring venues available here.