Classic comedy gets lost in translation

IF nothing else, you always know that the acting will be superb when going to see RSC production.

And on that front, The City Madam did not disappoint. Main man Jo Stone-Fewings was commanding and captivating as Luke Frugal, the wayward brother of Sir John Frugal who believes he has suddenly come in to a vast fortune.

Four Weddings and Funeral actress Sara Crowe pulled a punch as Lady Frugal, and I suspect actor Nathaniel Martello-White could be one to watch out for - his sardonic portrayal of apprentice Goldwire was brilliant. I also reserve special mention for Nicholas Day, pictured, who was a step apart in playing Lord Lacy with an almost camp slant that worked to great effect.

However, while the actors did their part, I do take issue with the direction of the play which left me confused at points. It starts strongly, but the play then meanders a bit and a scene involving the prostitute Shave’em was not a smooth transition and felt almost clumsy.

The comedy was written by Philip Massinger in 1632 and, for me, not enough had been done to make it reach a modern audience. Archaic language is to be expected and indeed enjoyed, but such a commitment to the ‘olde’ vernacular felt overindulgent and left mere mortals such as myself a little bemused.

Hearty laughs come in the form of a faux-Welsh astronomer, a broadly northern suitor and his love hate relationship with Sir Maurice, and Native American Sorcerers, making it overall enjoyable.

Jamie Smith