Malvern Festival Theatre
(April In Paris Ltd, JAM Pictures Ltd & Derby Theatre)
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April In Paris is a tragic-comedy that observes the rather
depressing, but all to common existence of a husband and wife in a seemingly
loveless marriage, struggling to make sense of their world after he lost his
job and their children ‘flew the nest’. The monotony of their lives is thrown
into disarray when they win a night away in Paris and embark on a wonderful
journey of rediscovery.
John Godber, the UK’s 3rd most performed
playwright and creator of Bouncers and Teachers, wrote April In Paris in 1992
during a downturn in the housing market, which resulted in high unemployment.
22 years later the content is still relevant and the story has been updated to
reflect this decade’s financial crisis. Godber also directs this piece and
cleverly physicalises the emotional separation and gentle reconnection of the married
couple as they undertake their sojourn. The set and costume design is extremely
adaptable and effective, reflecting the greyness of their lives until the
vibrant colours of Paris begin to seep into their very being.
Joe McGann is perfectly infuriating as the pessimistic
husband, Al, who appears to relish in the doom and gloom of their situation.
Shobna Gulati is delightful as the more optimistic wife, Bet, who effortlessly
deflects the slings and arrows of misfortune chucked her way. The pair work
really well together, bouncing their dialogue of each other and voicing a
heartfelt sincerity to the narrated sections throughout, a particular favourite
moment being the disco scene on board the P&O ferry.
April In Paris is a charming story of hope for any
relationship and a guaranteed enjoyable night of entertainment. It runs at
Malvern Theatres until Saturday before continuing on it’s national tour.
