MALVERN FESTIVAL THEATRE
BAREFOOT IN THE PARK (Guildford's Yvonne Arnaud Theatre)
Maureen Lipman directs and stars in Neil Simon’s
brilliant, romantic comedy, Barefoot In The Park, at Malvern Festival Theatre
this week. This superbly written play observes the devastating impact on
relationships when romanticism crashes into reality for newlyweds, Corrie and
Paul, as they move into their first, New York, apartment together.
Faye Castelow is a true star in every sense of the
word. She owns the stage throughout the entire performance with her incredible
vocal and physical expression as the dramatically, romantic Corrie Bratter. Her
focus and energy is amazing! Lipman delivers a masterclass performance as
Corrie’s mother, Mrs Banks. Her comedic physicality is hilarious while
remaining subtle enough to be entirely believable. Oliver Cotton, is thoroughly
enjoyable as the enigmatic Victor Velasco, who lives in the roof and Dominic
Tighe is perfect as lawyer, Paul, who’s ‘stuffed shirt’ persona is tested to
its limits as the story unfolds. There is a brilliant cameo performance from
David Partridge as the cheery, telephone repair man and possibly the funniest,
non-verbal, cameo appearance ever from Hayward Morse, as the delivery man. Pure
comedy gold.
Actor/directors have a conflict of interests and it
is questionable as to whether someone who stars in a show can effectively
direct it as well. There is no doubt as to Lipman’s skill as a director, which
was evident in the bucket loads, but there was a definite difference in the
style of direction when she was in the scene, although Peter Cregeen did an
excellent job as co-director. The quality of the production was clearly
enhanced Olivier Award winning, Tim Goodchild provides an absolutely
magnificent set that is a real feast for the eyes.
This small cast articulates the story, both
physically and verbally, with slick precision and apparent ease. The entire
performance is theatrical perfection and clearly rehearsed down to the finest
detail. The company must be congratulated on such a stunning production!
