The Crown Jewels is a summer comedy that is unfortunately lacking in execution. Based on the audacious 1671 attempt to steal the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London, the play has potential but falls flat. Written by Simon Nye, known for Men Behaving Badly, and directed by Sean Foley, the show features talented actors like Al Murray, Mel Giedroyc, and Neil Morrissey. However, the script is weak, with mediocre jokes and a meandering plot. The production fails to create a sense of jeopardy, even as a farce. Aidan McArdle and Joe Thomas do their best to bring humor to their roles, while Neil Morrissey is left with uninspiring material. Carrie Hope Fletcher shines in her dual roles and showcases her impressive singing talent. The highlight of the show is Murray’s performance as the monarch, where he ad-libs and engages with the audience. Adonis Siddique and Mel Giedroyc also provide entertaining performances, but they feel underutilized. Despite some bright spots, The Crown Jewels falls short of its potential.
Rock Follies, directed by Dominic Cooke, offers a nostalgic trip to the 1970s with its costume design by Kinnetia Isidore. The show tells the story of three women, Dee, Q, and Anna, and their journey to break into the rock music industry as the all-female group the Little Ladies. Written by Howard Schuman with music by Andy Mackay, Rock Follies explores the challenges faced by the women in a male-dominated industry. The stage musical, with a book by Chloë Moss, delves into their personal struggles and the rock industry’s power dynamics. The production is staged like a rock concert, complete with a dynamic set and a talented band. While the plot feels rushed, the trio of Zizi Strallen, Carly Bawden, and Angela Marie Hurst deliver strong performances and showcase their impressive vocal abilities. The ensemble provides excellent support, making for an uplifting evening despite the play’s flaws.
Word-Play by Rabiah Hussain is a thought-provoking play that explores the power and manipulation of words. The play begins with a crisis in Downing Street, as the press team tries to handle a racially offensive gaffe made by the unapologetic Prime Minister. From there, the play examines the weight and impact of words in various scenarios, from questioning safety slogans to language policing on a radio show. The fragmented structure adds intrigue, but may hinder character development and plot progression. The cast, including Issam Al Ghussain, Kosar Ali, Simon Manyonda, Sirine Saba, and Yusra Warsama, deliver exceptional performances, seamlessly transitioning between characters. Word-Play cleverly explores insidious prejudice and challenges the saying “sticks and stones may break my bones, words will never hurt me.” Despite some repetitiveness, the play presents a smart and important message.
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