AD-Gifted
The Good Life is a quintessentially British sitcom from the 1970s that has been reimagined on stage in this witty production.
I had never seen or even heard of this TV show, whereas my dad knew it very well, which meant we had different reactions to the show – but I will get onto that.
First things first, what’s it about?
It’s simple really. In the fancy suburbs of London, Tom Good is having a midlife crisis thanks to turning the grand ole age of 40. He and his wife Barbara take the drastic decision to leave their middle class, monotonous lives and become completely self-sufficient. This is to the absolute horror of their even posher next door neighbours Margo and Jerry.
They are clearly ahead of their time as living a greener life is more important than ever. After leaving their jobs and keeping their home, they grow their own food, rear their own back yard farm animals and make their own clothes.
They compile a story that leads to a pot(ty) dinner party and eventually the neighbours needing to stay at The Goods house. Throughout, the play brings in moments from several of the TV episodes, which was a nice reminder for my dad, including Geraldine the escape Goat artist who is brought to life on stage through puppetry.
The comedy moment
But the comedy really comes to a head in the scene where they are trying to save the runt piglet. A very memorable episode from the TV show I am told. It is very well escalated and comes to a heart-warming conclusion. Humour is injected through the two actors who change characters at fast pace transforming from a lethargic vet to a moody policeman and a nutty nurse to a mad milk lady. It’s a shame this idea isn’t utilised more in the play.
The show titters along and there are laughs to be had. Nothing ground-breaking or belly hurting, but it is quaint and weirdly comforting to watch.
Want to learn of more comedy plays? Don’t forget to read my review of Magic Goes Wrong
Nostalgia vs newbie
My dad’s nostalgia for the show meant he was understandably much more critical than me. His main issue was the lack of similarity to the original characters. He could see their essence but he was hoping for impersonators. Whereas I enjoyed each performance and think it was cast really well.
Rufus Hound is clearly a very talented actor, and shines as cheerful Tom Good. Sally Tutum plays Barbara exceptionally well bringing out her loving nature, determination and sharp humour.
Dominic Rowan is likeable as Jerry, the henpecked husband and friendlier neighbour of the two. Preeya Kalida nails the snobby persona of Margo who is always busy doing nothing and trying to be as pretentious as possible.
Yes this play is on the slower side, and maybe some of the lines don’t land as well as they may have done in a TV show, but it’s a good quality production.
For fans of the show, you may need to reconsider your expectations but for newbies like me, it’s a witty play that takes you back in time to when British comedy was at its pinnacle.
Playing at The Lowry until Saturday 30 October 2021.
Find out when it’s coming near you.