|
|
 |
| |
Home, for humble pie
HUMBLE BOY
Upstairs At The Gatehouse
THE death of his devoted beekeeper father brings astrophysics researcher Felix Humble (Ben Farrow) back to his family home in ‘Moreton-in-the-Mud’ and into the craw of deep-seated tensions in this science-laden black comedy, which premiered at the Royal National Theatre in 2001.
The play begins after the funeral in the garden of an English country home.
Felix has left before giving his eulogy, much to the annoyance of his mother Flora (Gay Soper), because he discovers she has been having an affair with George Pye (Chris Johnston), a coarse man she is set to marry.
George loathes Felix for breaking his daughter’s heart seven years earlier. The daughter, Rosie (Susie Harriet), has a child, who she later reveals is Felix’s. The tension reaches its peak over lunch cooked by Flora’s maid-like friend Mercy (Ann Tobin) and the secrets pour out.
The dialogue is always engaging, although some of the scientific references may be a little hard to follow at times.
There are, however, some very funny moments, like Flora offering Felix the remains of his father’s ashes in a honeypot wrapped in birthday paper and Mercy unknowingly using the ashes as seasoning for her gazpacho.
The exchange between Flora and Jim the Gardener/James the late husband (John Harwood), who up until the last scene could only be seen and heard by Felix, is touching, if a little twee.
Humble Boy is a skilful and moving black comedy in the Hamlet vein, with genuine depth.
Alexander Holt’s direction is accomplished and the cast is strong, with some fine performances, notably Gay Soper and Ann Tobin who stole many a scene, and Chris Johnston, who boldly stepped into the breach to replace Harry Meacher for the night.
Until September 2
020 8340 3488 |
 |
|
| |
Check Prices, Availability & Book Online
Receive Online Discounts and Instant Confirmation |
|
|
|
