'Maurice's Jubilee' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

MAURICE'S JUBILEE (Pleasance Theatre Trust, PW & Wild Thyme Productions)


The immensely talented Nichola McAuliffe makes a majestic return to Malvern Festival Theatre following her magnificent performance as the eponymous ‘Lady In The Van’ last year. This time she delights audiences with more superb characterisations, not only as an actor but also as the author of this delightfully poignant comedy, Maurice’s Jubilee.

Julian Glover, Sheila Reid & Nichola McAuliffe

On tour, after premiering at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe, McAuliffe’s latest play brilliantly explores an incredibly emotive subject with endearing charm and gentle humour. The distinguished Julian Glover, presents Maurice, a retired jeweller, who is determined, despite the odds, to see out a promise made sixty years ago on the eve of the Queen’s coronation. Sheila Reid, another comedic queen, plays Maurice’s devoted wife who struggles to cope in whatever way she can, with the help of the new nurse who has arrived to offer the palliative care.

McAuliffe’s traditional approach to the telling of this tale is perfect and as comfortable to experience as Maurice’s armchair. The first act is in real time and relies on inspiring, witty dialogue to warm us to the three characters as their story unfurls and concludes with the most wonderful soliloquy, eloquently delivered by Glover. The second act smoothly glides through the next day and gives another moving monologue from an unexpected guest.

Hannah Eidinow directs this fantastic piece with sincerity and simplicity and McAuliffe is to be congratulated on yet another superb performance and for the quality of material. The tour is proud to support Age UK and donations can be taken at the theatre, so please gives generously. The fantastic Maurice’s Jubilee runs until Saturday. Go and see it!