One Man Two Guvnors At Theatre By The Lake, Keswick Review

Reviewed by Jo H

One man two Guvnors by Richard Bean is an adaptation of the Italian comedy servant of two master by Carlo Goldoni which was set in Venice. This English version is set in the seaside town of Brighton. The show premiered in 2011 with James Cordon playing the main character Francis Henshaw, and then went on to tour the UK. It’s so nice to now be able to see it in Keswick.

It’s a very funny fast moving slapstick/ farce with live music ,a combination that creates a fantastic feel good atmosphere from start to finish.  The designers have been genius on this production, the set was a two tiered stage both of which changed a few times during the show mainly by the use of revolving wall panels.

When I entered the theatre about ten minutes before the show was due to start there was skiffle type band playing on the upper stage with a back ground scene of beach huts and strung coloured lights.  This created a lovely joyful atmosphere from the start. I was very surprised when the show did start and what I thought were musicians in the band came down to the lower stage and started acting. These talented people changed from actors to musicians and back again throughout the show. 

It’s quite a complex story with many characters but basically the main character Francis Henshall becomes a minder to a small time crook Rosco then has chance to make extra money with a second job as butler to Stanley Stubbers all the time doing both jobs without letting either boss know about each other.  This creates lots of the slapstick and farce.
Jordan Pearson who plays Francis Henshall was absolutely brilliant and did remind me a lot of James Cordon.  He has a real talent for interacting with the audience, and beware this show does have a little bit of audience participation, don’t sit on the front row if you don’t like getting involved.   It’s a long time since I’ve seen a show that made me laugh out loud so much.  I was enjoying so much I felt slightly put out when they announced it was time for an interval
A favourite character of mine was one of the waiters who was a fabulous cross between Manuel in Faulty Towers and Mrs Overall in Acorn Antiques. 

My niece who’s slowly recovering from surgery came with me to see this show, when we left the theatre she looked so much brighter than I’d seen her for a while and she said it had really cheered her up, this show should be prescribed by the nhs it’s been such a tonic.

The show lasts 2 hours 55 mins with an interval.  It has some strong language and is suitable for ages 11 and above.  It is showing from 22nd July to 3rd September.  Most shows start at 7.30 but there are a few matinee performances. tickets can be purchased from theatrebythelake.com priced from £10 to £39. 

If you are visiting the Lake District this summer pay a visit to Theatre by the Lake you’ll get a warm welcome the staff are lovely and it is in the most beautiful lake side setting.

For more information or to book tickets please visit Homepage – Theatre by the Lake. 

Rating: 5/5