Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay
Tues 11 June
words: BECKY GILLARD
★★★★☆
Last night saw the opening of Michael Frayn’s multi award-winning Noises Off at the Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, as part of its UK-wide tour which follows smash hit success and critical acclaim in London.
Having never heard of the famous comedy before, I was excited to see the production which follows the behind-the-scenes antics of a touring theatre company preparing for their tour of a play about “doors and sardines” called Nothing On. Split into three acts, we see the company at their tech run in Weston-Super-Mare, followed by a disastrous Wednesday matinee show in Ashton-under-Lyne and finally to the most shambolic final performance in Stockton-on-Tees. The play follows the classic comedy genre and is filled with slapstick, laugh-out-loud moments. Though perhaps not as sophisticated as modern comedy, the simple slapstick had the whole audience laughing continually throughout. The play within a play scenario is fantastic, offering a surprisingly refreshing alternative to most theatre, which is bizarre considering that Noises Off is a traditional classic. I had wondered if this concept would be difficult to follow, but it wasn’t at all, and with characters popping up from quite literally all over the place, as a member of the audience you really felt a part of the production.
The cast included Neil Pearson (Bridget Jones’ Diary) and Maureen Beattie (The Bill) who were both exceptional; although I must say the stand out performance for me was David Bark-Jones (The Davinci Code) who had me in stitches throughout.
Noises Off is a real, feel-good comedy that the whole family can enjoy. The second act in particular was absolutely fantastic: watching the characters attempt to be professional putting on a play whilst battling with off-stage conflict was both hilarious and brilliant. If you’re looking for some light humour and a good time, I would most definitely recommend this classic comedy. Catch it before it goes!
Noises Off runs until Sat 15 June, tickets: £18-£32. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk