Review of ‘Bedroom Farce’: “There’s more to happen beneath (and over) the sheets”

Alan Ayckbourn’s 1980s comedy returns to the stage through Robin Herford’s newest revival, playing at The Mill at Sonning for a strictly limited run until the end of the summer. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show, to let us know if its crazy mix of love affairs ends up making a good match.

There’s nothing more quintessentially British in this world than a good old farce. If you don’t believe me, just give the last electoral debate and try to spot the 7 differences between the former-current prime minister duo and Lois Griffin running for mayor in Family Guy (I’m not making a suggestion – do as you’ve been told, NOW!). Breathe… (ew…). Couple-themed drama is no stranger to this style of comedy – in fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the genre itself was given birth to, raised and consolidated by the ongoing absurdity that characterizes its real-life counterpart (the bliss of being named Favoured Son of Spinster Town are finally starting to show).

Thus, to bring back a classic dealing with the insanity of love relationships  seems like an obvious choice from so many angles: it’s relatable, observational, and, in the end, entertaining. Yet, the question still remains: how far have we walked away from 80s sitcom to still feel enticed by its humour and, ultimately, compelled by the whole thing?

This summer, the Mill at Sonning welcomes the latest revival of Bedroom Farce, a barmy spoof depicting the many joys of marriage (as you can imagine, it’s not a very long show) through the eyes of three different yet interconnected generations. Penned by Alan Ayckbourn, the piece deals with a recently broken-up couple, who unexpectedly reunite in the same house party. It will not take long for the night’s peaceful course to evolve into absolute pandemonium – and the true fun to finally start.

Devising an engaging premise with effortless ease, the script is able to entice through a moderately entertaining narrative. However,  it’s difficult not to notice how too many opportunities the play sets up by itself are, sadly, underexploited. Relying on traditional elements such as foolish misunderstandings leading to the most awkward situations, as well as the almost law-decreed slapstick moments, it comes as a bit of a surprise to see how too many of these tools are not squeezed to the extreme (oh, grow up… damn it…).

With many scenes creating enough anticipation not only for the over-the-top jokes to land, but to be hoped for, the lack of a more intense, surrealistic outcome compromises the effectiveness of its comedy – which, though still enjoyable, it fails to trigger that blaring cackles we’re expected to experience. On the other hand, though the plot’s overall rhythm is well established, the inner pacing throughout each scene feels a bit flawed – sometimes, ending in such an abrupt manner, their contribution to the recount seems unnecessary.

In any case, there’s still some laudable efforts to be acknowledged in this production. Directed by Robin Herford, the montage excels at concocting a visually appealing and efficient account. Staged as a three-parted space, with all of the story’s scenarios simultaneously on display, Michael Holt’s design succeeds at bringing both dynamism and cohesiveness through its scenic approach.

In addition, its rather remarkable cast makes an outstanding effort at making the material work despite its blemishes – all of them flaunting exceptional timing and absolute naturalness in their humorous skills. Among them, the highest praise goes to Ben Porter in the role of Trevor, giving an incredibly committed rendition of a character who, despite its writing not unleashing all of his potential as a lead comic element, is nonetheless capable of charming and regaling us with a few enjoyable chuckles.

A tale of its era that quietly reverbs towards our own, Bedroom Farce makes a nostalgic statement that scratches some levels of hilarity, but struggles to go any further down by not providing sufficient fuel to keep its machinery in constant motion. They say that classics should not be tampered with, and by that philosophy, the montage exudes some discreet brilliance by presenting what’s likely one of the most polished versions the material has ever undergone.

Yet, there’s an element of wit that’s missed all throughout and that, if found, would allow the play to break the limitations that, unfortunately, can’t free itself from so far. Then again, the sumptuous dinner that comes with your ticket might as well be just enough to lure you into the wondrous mystique of its picturesque venue. And in the words of the master of queenly cattiness, if you have more brandy, it may make you more agreeable.

All pictures credit to Andrea Lambis.

Bedroom Farce plays at Mill at the Sonning until 21 September. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara