The Government Inspector

Marylebone Theatre, 07/05/24

Credit: Tristram Kenton

Final rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Featuring two members of the ‘Ghosts’ cast (also of horrible histories fame) and Strax the Sontaran from Doctor Who, I had high hopes of a jovial night out at the theatre. It delivered on that front. Patrick Myles’ modern reimagination of this Russian classic is a romp, with gags galore and modern jokes that add a layer of inclusivity to the fun. There are jibes at the conservative government and references to Jackie Weaver and the shambolic organisation of Handforth Parish Council. Dan Skinner as Governor Swashprattle is a triumph, wittering aloud and aside to the audience as he is squeezed for every last drop of his begrudged hospitality as Kiell Smith-Bynoe’s Percy Fopdoodle causes a kerfuffle in town.

That said, there is an inescapable amdram feel to the production – for all the fun and Russian music, it lacks an air of authority and relies heavily on the obvious quips. Diction is also a slight issue at times – particularly for Smith-Bynoe, which causes an occasional line to be missed.

The set is minimal but it does enough of a job, brought to life by a well rigged set of lights. The supporting cast all offer a believable performance and pleasantly carry the plot, embroiling themselves in the layers upon layers of corruption playing out before us.

The second half struggled to keep up with the pace of the first, and the slightly more muted action all takes place within the one location – but it is neatly knitted together as each character comes face to face with the reality of being swindled.

While it fails to reach the heights of a well-oiled and sufficiently funded west end production, the reimagination of the story – coupled with some strong acting performances – bring the play to life and present it joyously to a modern audience. I hope Patrick Myles – who I had the pleasure of speaking with after the show – finds a publisher who will take on his terrific adaptation.