Comedy Review: Mark Holland
This slick piece of comedic theatre set in mid-20th century New York lets audiences witness the bungled kidnapping of washed-up actor Jerry Renford and bask in its farcical consequences.
As more and more characters are introduced, this latest production from the University of Birmingham’s Article 19 group comes to incorporate an increasingly diverse range of humour, all the while maintaining a remarkably high standard of acting. The accents employed, for example, are convincing enough for many to doubt the troupe’s Midlands roots, and the cast members’ onstage chemistry is superb. Particular highlights include a lengthy, frenzied monologue on the joys of fishing and a frighteningly sensual portrayal of Puerto Rican womanhood.
Perhaps most impressive, though, is just how well-orchestrated the whole thing is; none of the performers once seem flustered by the fast-paced script and stage reorganisation, the result of which is that a play lasting a mere hour feels surprisingly complete. The Kidnapper’s Guide represents something of a masterclass in minimalistic theatre, and its cast look likely to have very bright futures indeed.
