Review: SOME MOTHERS DO ‘AVE ‘EM - The Alexandra, Birmingham (UK tour)
Photo credit: Scott Rylander
Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em is a British sitcom, which was broadcast on the BBC from 1974–1978, plus a one-off special in 2016. The 23 episodes accumulated some 25 million viewers playing in 60 countries around the world. The protagonist is Frank Spencer (Joe Pasquale), a lovable klutz who holds more ambition than talent. The play is set in his humble home, filled to the brim with DIY faux pas, which reveal themselves at the most inopportune moments.
Frank is unable to maintain regular employment; despite this, he is eager to pursue the dream of becoming a full time magician. Wholeheartedly supported by Betty Spencer (Sarah Earnshaw), Frank’s incredibly tolerant, warm and charismatic wife, Frank attempts to get a loan from Mr Luscombe (Moray Treadwell), a bank manager who also happens to be in a romantic relationship with Mrs Fisher (Susie Blake). Throw in Father O’Hara (James Patterson) for moral support and we have the foundations for a conscientious British comedy play.
The plot in brief; Frank is preparing to impress a BBC talent show with his magic skills and Betty is trying to tell Frank she is pregnant. Cue a slew of misinterpretations, misunderstandings and slap stick joy. We are purposely keeping this review vague because the joy is in the not knowing, embracing the silliness and having a couple of hours of mindless joy. We must add, this team were performing on the hottest day on record and they did not drop a beat.
This is not the first venture into Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em for the majority of the cast, whom performed in their respective roles back in 2018. The onstage camaraderie is palatable and a joy to behold. The slapstick comedy is, overall, clever and incredibly well paced. It remains true to its sitcom roots, much to the delight of the audience, the majority of whom were clearly avid fans of the original show.
In spite of its 1970’s origin, the play has had some subtle and much needed modernisation, bringing it up to date for younger audiences. A timely reference to the UK’s current cost of living crisis being one of them. These amendments are incredibly inclusive to newer viewers who may not have seen the original sitcom, myself being one of them. There are many ‘laugh out loud’ moments where silly meets the blind ridiculous and the final twist is clever and not easy to predict.
Joe Pasquale shines as Frank Spencer, better known for stand-up comedy, but do not underestimate Pasquale’s acting capabilities. Sarah Earnshaw brings such warmth to Betty Spencer. There is no way the relationship would hold water by today’s standards but Earnshaw’s earnest portrayal of Betty lures you in. Frank is effectively a loveable waste of space, but her loyalty endears you to believe in him too, despite no evidence that Frank has any conceivable talents.
One for both lovers of the sitcom and those who have never seen an episode. Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em has a little something for everyone. One all generations can enjoy together. Would we watch it again, Besties? Absolutely.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Alanna Boden
Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em plays at the Alexandra until 23 July, before continuing its tour. To book tickets for select touring venues, please click here.