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A Night with The Ladykillers at the Gielgud Theatre
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Graham Linehan’s The Ladykillers recently announced an extension to its booking period at the Gielgud Theatre following record box office takings over Christmas and New Year. The play, based on the darkly humorous film made by the Ealing Studios in 1955, was adapted for stage by the Father Ted co-creator and features a top notch cast of British comedy talent including: Peter Capaldi, Ben Miller, Clive Rowe, James Fleet, Stephen Wright and Marcia Warren. Now booking until Saturday 14th April 2012; UK Tickets Web Editor Ben went along this week to catch the show. |
The Ladykillers Review – Ben for UK TicketsWhilst my friend and I were nearly tempted into plotting a heist of our own after paying for two bottles of beer at the theatre bar, this excellent show soon sated our thirst for a good West End comedy with its fast-moving storyline and outstanding performances making The Ladykillers the best play either of us had seen since Jerusalem. Whilst the first act revels in slapstick-farce, the second becomes much darker as the gang’s cover as amateur musicians is blown and Mrs Wilberforce stands resolutely against them. The show piles on the sight gags, including grisly ends for a number of the crooks, but these are always inventive and brilliantly played. |
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Peter Capaldi excels as the scheming ‘Professor’ (a man who must think on his feet when things go awry). Ben Miller (pictured left) stands out as the menacing ‘Louis’ (quick with both his knife and tongue). Clive Rowe displays his prowess for physical comedy with a memorable performance as dim-witted boxer ‘One Round’. James Fleet is perfectly cast as ‘The Major’ (a smooth-talking conman with a yellow streak), whilst Stephen Wright is energetic as baby-faced wide boy ‘Harry’. Finally, Marcia Warren is delightful as the doddering ‘Mrs Wilberforce’ (a plucky widow with a strong sense of moral decency). |
| In summary, The Ladykillers, like Michael Taylor’s set, springs plenty of surprises. With a sharp script, colourful characters and plenty of laughs throughout, it will surely provide more sweet music for the Gielgud Theatre box office before the end of its run! 4/5 | |
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