A quintessentially British theatrical treat, powered by a wonderfully versatile performance from Sam Harrison.
⭐⭐⭐
What’s it about?
Adapted from the stories of P. G. Wodehouse, Jeeves Takes Charge brings the wonderfully eccentric world of Bertie Wooster and his supremely capable valet Jeeves to the stage. In this one-man production, Sam Harrison takes on the entire cast of characters, switching between Bertie, Jeeves and the assortment of formidable relatives, friends and acquaintances who populate Wodehouse’s world. What follows is a fast-moving comedy of social mishaps, romantic complications and very British absurdity.
Act One tells the story of how Jeeves first comes to be employed by Bertie Wooster and, almost immediately, begins taking charge of his life — clearly a much-needed role. From managing Bertie’s questionable wardrobe choices to navigating the various social and romantic complications that surround him, it quickly becomes apparent who is really in charge.
What we loved
The success of a one-man show rests almost entirely on its performer, and Harrison is excellent. He is clearly at home with both Wodehouse’s writing and this particular style of comedy. His bumbling delivery, physical comedy, rubbery movements and wonderfully eccentric mannerisms make him perfectly suited to the material.
There is something quintessentially British about the entire evening: the language, characters, social conventions and slightly ridiculous situations. Although the writing is very wordy, and it does take some concentration to follow the storytelling, particularly in act two, there are many genuine laugh out loud moments.
The production design is particularly clever. At first glance, the stylish set is relatively simple: one elegant room with a Chesterfield sofa at its centre. But the walls become a canvas for projections, changing colour and atmosphere to transport us between different locations and times of day. Even the paintings hanging on the walls transform, while the view through the double glass doors at the back of the stage continually changes to establish where we are — whether Berkeley Square in Mayfair, Brighton Pier or the gardens of a girls’ school.
Anything we’d change?
The very particular Wodehouse style won't necessarily appeal to everyone, and the one-man format means the production naturally relies heavily on the audience enjoying the language and Harrison’s character work.
Who would enjoy it?
Fans of P. G. Wodehouse and classic British comedy.
Who created it?
Based on the stories of P. G. Wodehouse, Jeeves Takes Charge is adapted by James Duke, Edward Duke and Hugh Wooldridge, with Hugh Wooldridge also directing. Caite Hevner is responsible for the production’s set and video design, with Tim Mitchell as lighting designer and Paul Groothuis as sound designer.
Verdict
Jeeves Takes Charge is a charming and cleverly staged piece of quintessentially British theatre. Sam Harrison proves an immensely likeable and versatile performer, while the inventive design ensures his rapidly changing cast of characters has an equally adaptable world in which to play.
Book at: https://tickets.stagedtheatre.co.uk/play/jeeves-takes-charge-tickets