After the first number, I really wasn’t sure whether I was going to like this show. I knew that it was going to be quite silly and wholesome – I grew up on Salad Days because it was my grandmother’s favourite musical, so I knew what to expect – but I found the beginning overly silly and saccharine and, in fact, quite painful to watch. It was actually quite devastating, especially as I’d heard such good things about the show. However, after a few scenes it began to settle – or I just got used to it! - and, in the end, I did enjoy the show, although I wouldn’t rave about it.
I have to say that I think that the production was saved somewhat by Janie Dee. She is simply sensational, and managed to cut through the saccharine simpering with sheer brilliance. She was a grounding, natural influence – indeed, the only one in the show! - and every movement, every line and every facial expression was perfection. Her facial expression at the end of the second Act spoke more than words ever could.
At the other end of the scale, Adrian Edmondson’s Lord Brockhurst, although undoubtedly played as written, and played well, was just the wrong side of uncomfortable to watch. He was far too predatory – a veritable stereotype! - and in this day and age it was a very bold decision to play him as such. Admittedly, the story would not work if he was played as ‘less’, but it did make for some quite uncomfortable and cringing moments.
I also felt that the Menier is not the place for this show, given its choreography and some of the direction. The dance numbers are bright, bold and energetic, and they felt cramped by the limited space. The cast were giving it their all, but it was a controlled all so as to not hit the audience members in the first row! In that sense, it almost felt like the production had been choreographed for a bigger space, only to find itself constrained by the Menier. The same is true of some of the direction – it was playing to a bigger space than there was. The most notable example of this was Hortense’s number. Although it is supposed to be contrasting and loud at times, it was a bit too loud and too much for the space.
Overall, I did enjoy the show, but it really is a silly, saccharine and simpering parody and, if you just accept it as such, you’ll have a good evening.