Handbagged

          The Queen and Margeret Thatcher have been the subjects of a few films and plays in recent years. This show entrained me however as it explores the subject of the weekly meetings between the Queen and Thatcher whilst Ms Thatcher was Priminister of Great Britain. 'But you've seen that before.' you may say. True. I did see The Audience (the review of which you can read here), but that is exactly the reason why I wanted to see it. Why have two shows that have the same subject matter show in the West End with a gap of about a year between the two? Surely this show must have something different. Plus, just look at that sly grin on Margeret Thatchers face in the advert above.

          The play is on at the Vaudeville Theatre, which to I my knowledge I have only been to once before (I went to see Trevor Ashley, an Australian musical star and female impersonator, perform a solo show entitled Liza On An E. You can read my review of the show here). The theatre has a capacity of just 690 though it feels fairly intermit, especially if you sit in the stalls. With the set for this show, which is unapologetically simple, each and every seat will have a brilliant view of the action, which takes place centre stage most of the time. The completely white set is only broken by a few items of furniture which are moved occasionally during the show. Some, I know, will find simple sets annoying. I admit that even I had a issue with stupidly simple sets, though for this show it is perfect. The acting is only emphasised by the lack of set and my god is the acting brilliant.

          All the performers were brilliant, though I must Marion Bailey and Fenella Woolgar. Marion is fantastic as an older version of the Queen and Fenella is brilliant as a younger Thatcher. Don't get me wrong, Stella Gonet and Lucy Robinson are great in the roles of an older Thatcher and younger Queen, though Marion and Fenella excelled. Both are hilarious in their roles and bring a new dimension and characterisations of people one already feels one knows. Marion gives the first big laugh of the show and I would argue it could be the biggest of the whole show. With her entrance you know exactly what sort of show your in for.

          If you see one show this must be a consideration. Yes there are musicals I would see over this, but in terms of a comedic play I doubt you'll find any better. Tickets and Info