Review: ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS, New Vic Theatre

Photo credit: Andrew Billington

One Man, Two Guvnors sees Francis Henshall sacked from his band and out of work. But he can't be kept down for too long and he's soon got not one, but two dubious new employers. There's just one problem...they can't know about one another!

Richard Bean's adaptation of One Man, Two Guvnors, directed by Conrad Nelson, showcases the long lasting charm of true slapstick comedy that keeps the audience smiling from ear to ear throughout. Michael Hugo’s performance of Francis Henshall is a comedic whirlwind that drags the audience through 1963 Brighton and Hove with his brilliant comedic timing and physicality that has the audience in stitches from the get go.

As Francis hilariously juggles his two jobs, the plot becomes increasingly more convoluted, leading to multiple misunderstandings and classic slapstick humour. Whilst the show does not take it self seriously by any means, it does delve into the struggles of the glaringly obvious class divides in 1963. It is clear to the audience that this has not changed, even in today’s society when everyone seems to be out for themselves.

Though this is a physical comedy show, one of the standout features is the seamless integration of live music, perfectly crafted by musical director Rebekah Hughes. This adds that extra layer of complexity and vibrancy to the whole performance, piecing together scene changes as well as opening both acts.

Despite the overall enjoyment of the piece, there are moments when the production feels slightly less polished than you’d expect, with occasional instances when the execution and fluidity of certain scenes could be a lot sharper. While the comedic timing for the majority of the show is impeccable, parts of the production fall slightly short of the mark.

One Man, Two Guvnors delivers as a slapstick comedy and will leave audiences smiling and tapping their toes through to the final curtain. While the overall production may lack the final layer of polish needed to make it stand out from the rest, it is undeniably an enjoyable and memorable experience.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Jeremy Thursfield

One Man, Two Guvnors plays at the New Vic Theatre until 11 May, with further info here.