She Stoops to Conquer

If there is one word to summarize Birmingham Repertory's touring production of Oliver Goldsmith's She Stoops to Conquer, it would have to be 'entertaining'.
Director Jonathan Munby instantly builds a casual atmosphere in the theatre, using music and localised humour to set the tone of the play. The prologue (written by Bryony Lavery) transports the audience back to the eighteenth century while also showing how romantic farce can still ring true.

Despite the mannerly context and period costuming, the humour of the play succeeds with a modern audience. This can be partially attributed to Munby's delicate balance between sexual innuendo and genteel charm, but even more so to the brilliant energy and pacing from the ensemble.

As the steadfast, old-fashioned Mr Hardcastle, Colin Baker brings experience and grace to an otherwise stock character. Likewise, Jonathan Broadbent stands out marvellously as the mischievous Tony Lumpkin, capturing our attention with palpable expression and colourful nature.

It is interesting to question the effect of designer Mike Britton's concave stage. One guesses that it must help the actors build up speed as they come barrelling onstage ' something that occurs often. Overall, the design is exceedingly simple and keeps our attention drawn to the performers.

For a casual night of theatre, this show does not fail to amuse. Even as historical drama, academics may be hard-pressed to criticise such valiant efforts. An elegant and solid production.