This is the centenary tour of Hobson’s Choice, but I have to say that it doesn’t show its age. Martin Shaw is very good in the title role, it requires a blustering, exaggerated performance and you can see he is enjoying himself here.
Really though, the play is all about Maggie. Naomi Frederick is excellent, she plays it totally straight and carries it off perfectly. Bryan Dick puts in a great performance as Willie, his transformation is both funny and credible.
The sets are relatively simple but beautifully made, and the direction is uncomplicated. They allow the real stars of the show to shine through and they are the words. It is a fantastically written comedy drama, with great individual lines and genuinely funny characters. It is easy to see why it is still regularly produced even one hundred years after it was written. This is a production by people who really love Harold Brighouse’s play and that care shines through on the stage.
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Wow, thanks for this. I’m headed to London in July and this is one of my favorite plays (and films). I’ll definitely be looking for tickets!
Saw it! Loved it!
Pleased you enjoyed it. I hope London is being good to you – this is the best weather we have had all year!
We had a lovely trip, despite and because of the rain then not then hot weather! I just adore London!
Martin Shaw in anything would be wonderful. This sounds like a bit of a hoot. Thank you for the review. Wish I was visiting London soon.
There are plans for a tour with this show – it might not get as far away as you though!
Ha ha looking at the images, I think Martin Shaw modelled himself on Sir Lez Patterson. Wonderful.
That’s why I am jealous of my friend being in London and not me!!!