The King’s Speech at the King’s Theatre Edinburgh Review
The King’s Speech
King’s Theatre, Edinburgh
18-23 May 2015
Reviewed by Dee Ryz
Starring Raymond Coulthard and Jason Donovan, The King’s Speech tells the story of an untrained Australian speech therapist, Logue (Donovan), who has to cure the future King’s (Coulthard) speech impediment (through counselling, we understand that it was brought on as a child by his bullying family) as his older brother abdicates the throne in favour of true love, all while the UK is on the brink of World War II.
I thoroughly enjoyed the play and found myself enthralled as it followed the relationship between the King and Logue as they worked to cure the King – the on stage chemistry between the two actors was amazing as you share in their high moments (including a hilarious scene where the King stands in Logue’s living room shouting expletives) and their lows – you really do become emotionally invested in the characters as their relationship develops into a firm friendship.
Jason Donovan’s portrayal of Logue is outstanding, with his cheeky-chappy attitude which contrasts Coulthard’s King’s frosty demeanour excellently. How they bond as the King finds confidence in his speech as the scenes unfold is, at times, really heart-warming.
The set, though sparse, created an atmosphere true to purpose – from Westminster, to the Royal Palace and even Logue’s doctor’s office, the play is very believable with use of only a few props.
The King’s Theatre itself is in immaculate condition – renovated in 2012, the theatre has mastered a modern take on the original features – the interesting story and development of the ceiling mural can be found behind the stalls area – and I can honestly say, as someone nearly 6ft tall, I felt there was generous legroom too!
There’s something for everyone in The King’s Speech, a history lesson (Winston Churchill and the Archbishop of Canterbury make for some comic moments!) and play rolled into one – a must see this month which I’ll be recommending to all my friends!
Overall, I’d give the King’s Speech a magnificent 4 out of 5.
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £14 to £29.50 (Booking fees may apply).
The King’s Speech is at the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh until 23 May 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0131 529 6000.
King’s Theatre, 2 Leven Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9LQ | 0131 529 6000
