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One Man Two Guvnors: Review

The cast of One Man, Two Guvnors

After two successful years on the West End, 'One Man Two Guvnors' celebrated its landmark run at London’s Haymarket Theatre with a special Gala performance of the show.
 
And it’s not difficult to understand why audiences can’t get enough of it.


 
Set in 1963, 'One Man Two Guvnors' follows the misfortunes of hapless Francis Henshall as he finds himself stuck between two demanding bosses in the criminal underworld of Brighton.
 
Those expecting to simply watch a straight forward comedy will be in for a shock – the audience is just as important to the play as the on stage actors.
 
The play doesn’t just break down the fourth wall, it never existed in the first place. With so many in-jokes thrown to the audience throughout, it makes Miranda’s knowing winks to camera almost seem subtle.
 
But this is by no means a bad thing. 'One Man Two Guvnors' is a tour de force in farce comedy – packed with innuendo, slapstick and double entendres throughout. You’d certainly be hard pushed to find one person in the audience who managed to suppress even the smallest of giggles.
 
Returning as lead Francis Henshall, Owain Arthur is phenomenal, his comic timing and interaction with the audience bordering on perfection.
 
New cast member Angela Griffin shines in the role of Dolly, the secretary who knows exactly how to get her way with men despite her feminist sensibilities. Kellie Shirley owns the role of ditzy Pauline, while Sam Alexander is as charming as he is toenail curling in the role of pompously posh Stanley Stubbers.
 
'One Man Two Guvnors' is booking until 1 March 2014 before it packs up and goes on its UK tour. So snap up tickets while you can - you won’t be disappointed. For tickets visit: www.onemantwoguvnors.com