The magic of outdoor theatre, especially on a sunny Sunday afternoon, is undeniable. This year's summer season at Tolethorpe's outdoor theatre was a testament to that, with the Stamford Shakespeare Company's production of 'One Man, Two Guvnors' stealing the show. The play, set in Brighton in 1963, is a farce that demands precise delivery of dialogue and physical comedy, and the Stamford Shakespeare Company delivered it flawlessly.
At the heart of this production was Guy Sharman, who played the perpetually famished, double-dealing, but endearing Francis Henshall. Inheriting a role made famous by James Corden is no small task, but Sharman made it his own with impeccable timing and boundless energy. Whether improvising with the audience or attempting to serve two multi-course dinners simultaneously without either employer finding out, Sharman commanded the stage with charisma and charm.
The supporting cast was equally impressive, with a cracking ensemble that played pompous lovers, crooked solicitors, and dim-witted mobsters with great aplomb. The production moved at a pace, and the theatre's seats, despite being somewhat uncomfortable, didn't feel as bad as they could have for all five acts of Hamlet. The singers who distracted during set changes provided extra amusement for the audience, adding to the overall enjoyment.
Open-air theatre can often be a gamble against the elements, but with a summer as forgiving as this one, and a lead actor like Sharman, Tolethorpe served up an absolute feast. The summer season at Tolethorpe has now ended, but the memories of this production will linger. Next year's programme features Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing', 'Shakespeare in Love', 'The Railway Children', and the musical 'Between the Bars'.
In my opinion, the Stamford Shakespeare Company's production of 'One Man, Two Guvnors' is a must-see for anyone who appreciates quality theatre. The performance was a testament to the power of live theatre and the magic that can happen when the elements align. The company's commitment to bringing Shakespeare to life in an outdoor setting is commendable, and the result was a truly memorable experience.
