400 A Comedy At The Theatre Royal Plymouth Review

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

How wonderful to be back at the Theatre Royal Plymouth after such a long closure and what better way to celebrate their re-opening than with three productions by Le Navet Bete. This locally based touring company is no stranger to the Theatre Royal where audiences have previously enjoyed former productions including Dracula, Robin Hood, the Three Musketeers and Treasure Island.

Based in Exeter this company consists of a core team of four performers Nick, Matt, Al and Dan who ,along with their technical production man Alec, have been entertaining locally since 2008 having met while studying at the University of Plymouth.

This is such a fine choice for their re – opening show by the Theatre Royal Plymouth at a time when everyone is wanting a bit of normality and escapism. The theatre was forced to close in March 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic and apart from a short reprise toward the end of 2020 when they were able to put on a covid-safe panto (albeit cut short again due to further restrictions) they have remained closed until this week.

The Theatre Royal Plymouth is a very impressive theatre situated in the centre of Plymouth. Nearby bus routes and several car park available mean that access to the theatre is great. On arriving at the theatre you are immediately confronted by the huge Messenger statue which stands proudly outside. I’m sure she is glad to see activity again in the foyer and surrounding area of the theatre!

With Covid restrictions still in place, going to the theatre is still a different experience so thank you to the front of house staff who are coping brilliantly with all the new routines and still greeted everyone happily and safely. None of the well loved facilities such as the coffee shop are open yet so we were directed straight to our seats which were well spaced with gaps between family groups and bubbles. Masks have to be worn throughout which is a shame for a comedy production where the audiences smiling faces could not be seen!

The show I had tickets for – 400. A comedy – had been produced as part of the Mayflower400 celebrations which should have taken place last year. The company started the week with productions of Treasure Island and The Three Musketeers and have now moved on to 400 A comedy.

This high energy production was a laugh a minute from the opening – rather cheesy- impro show routine to the dancing aliens in the finale. While trying to improvise with ideas that showed the Anglo – American links, they were constantly interrupted by aliens and clones of themselves. The part where Matt was re-enacting Marilyn Monroe’s iconic ‘Happy Birthday President’ scene was hilarious.

Some great stage effects were used and the ringing of mobile phones with dramatic music at certain points was very effective.

These guys certainly portrayed comedy at its best. Simple but not overacted, their natural talents shone through. Facial expressions and comedy timing was great throughout.

A fantastic company with one aim – good old fashioned entertainment.

Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost £20 each
400.A Comedy. is at the Theatre Royal Plymouth until 4th July 2021.
For more information and to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222