So, by a fortunate set of circumstances that occurred yesterday, my afternoon was spent in the fourth row of the Adelphi Theatre watching the smash-hit "One Man, Two Guvnors". Now, I had previously heard nothing but glowing reviews for this play but what I witnessed for two and a half hours was by far the funniest show I've ever seen in the West End. It is a classic British comedy farce with a plot far too convoluted, and frankly mental, to go through here (plus, half of the fun of it is not knowing what to expect). People being hit with objects? Check. Cross dressing? Of course. Sexual innuendos? Plenty. It certainly ticks all the comedy boxes. However why this play was so so great was simply down to one man, James Corden.
As far as I understand, old Jimboy had received a bit of a backlash in my fair lands, after of course becoming a mega-star with the success of "Gavin and Stacey". I myself became part of this backlash, quietly wondering if he was just a bit of a twat; nothing more than the UK's Chris Farley. However, watching him in this play reminded me of just what an absolutely brilliant comedic actor the man is. Also, a key feature of this play is the unexpected audience participation at several turns, which Corden executes brilliantly. At the risk of going all Alan Partridge....my sides almost split at the seams.
So, in conclusion, if you're in London and can get your hands on some tickets (hurry up, it's run ends in February) I cannot recommend this wonderful play highly enough. A healthy reminder of how much fun a trip to the Theatre can be.
Peace,
John.
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