WOKINGHAM Theatre’s January offering is a most illuminating story, what ho!
Based on a 1938 P.G. Wodehouse story, Jeeves and Wooster In Perfect Nonsense stars the ever bumbling Bertie Wooster, accompanied by his unflappable valet, Jeeves, and his Aunt Dahlia’s butler, Seppings.
For those who’ve never read the Wodehouse novels, Bertram Wooster is a wealthy, well-intentioned, but rather empty-headed layabout, forever in the habit of getting himself into scrapes.
Fortunately he enjoys the help of his gentleman’s gentleman, Jeeves, a servant who is calm, intelligent, and able to solve any problem.
In Perfect Nonsense, Jeeves toddles from one disaster to another, while attempting to avoid romantic connections.
Of course, he fails – at most things – and, of course, it is the fate of Wooster to rescue him.
Based on the novel, The Code of the Woosters, and written by brothers David and Robert Goodale, the play won the 2014 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.
It was first performed at the Richmond Theatre, and then transferred to the West End, in the Duke of York Theatre.
It’s a bonkers story that continues to delight audiences, and it opens with Bertie deciding to stage a one-man show to recount his recent experiences at Totliegh Towers.
On realising that he needs actors to play the many roles in his story, he calls upon the assistance of Jeeves, and Seppings.
What ensues is a madcap tale, told at a ripping pace, with numerous scene changes, and character transformations by the dozen, from all three actors.
Audiences can expect appearances from Gussie Fink-Nottle, a shy young man who studies newts, Stiffy Bing, scheming niece of Sir Watkyn Bassett, and Bertie’s formidable Aunt Dahlia.
Director Chris Hillebrandt said: “This is such a delightfully silly, fast-paced comedy.
“It’s tricky to put on, because of all the technical challenges and costume changes, and it’s the kind of play where you have to be very inventive with the set.
“You really have to think outside the box a lot.
“But we have a great team at Wokingham Theatre, and it has been great fun.”
Mr Hillebrandt and the cast of three have especially enjoyed drawing out the comedy of the script.
“It’s brilliantly written, and very clever,” Mr Hillebrandt continued.
“We’re making it as funny as we can.
“The motor car scenes in particular, have been very entertaining to rehearse, but the whole thing has been a joy to work on.”
The play should delight fans of P.G.Wodehouse Novels.
“But anyone who enjoys comedy should have a great time too,” said Mr Hillebrandt.
“January can be a miserable month, so we hope that audiences will just come along and enjoy a great piece of comic theatre and a good laugh.”
Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense can be seen at Wokingham Theatre, from Thursday, January 18 through to Saturday, January27, with the exception of Sunday.
Doors open at 7.45pm, and tickets cost £16.
For information and tickets, visit: www.wokinghamtheatre.org.ukor call the box office, on: 0118 978 5363.
