Allo Allo

The cast showed genuine respect for ‘Allo ‘Allo, the much-loved television show, in this production at the charming Assembly Rooms. Although the stage lacked depth, the creative set design, complete with numerous small details, added plenty of atmosphere. The stage was divided into three main areas: the largest space was the café, stage right housed the German office, and the bookcase cleverly transformed into a bed for the bedroom scene. There was also the kitchen/cellar area. Effective lighting clearly defined each section, and the cast consistently performed within these boundaries.

The cast was immediately identifiable, delivering their performances effortlessly. Mitchell Worton skilfully showcased his French accent, portraying Rene Artois superbly. His resigned acceptance of trying to appease the Germans and the resistance, hiding the British Airmen and juggling his amorous antics with Mimi and Yvette, all whilst staving off the attentions of his wife Edith, oh yes, and hiding the painting of the Madonna with the big boobies was quite a feat. The scene involving the installation of the new radio, designed to resemble a cockatoo, along with the hilarious conversations that followed, was notable for its use of double entendre throughout.

April Krystina gave a brilliant performance as Edith. Singing deliberately off-key is deceptively difficult, and only a singer with real skill can make it convincing; April pulled it off with effortless control. Her deadpan reactions to the chaos around her were equally impressive and add a quietly comic layer to the role.

Ellen Harris (Yvette) and Emily Hutson (Mimi) delivered performances exactly as I anticipated, embracing their roles with genuine enthusiasm. I am sure they had great fun. The musical interlude was executed exceptionally well by Edith, Yvette and Mimi, who consistently upheld the intended melody and musicality throughout. No mean feat when one is off key!

Julie Waring excelled as Michelle, delivering her signature line perfectly. Jack Purkis matched this with his entertaining portrayal of Policeman Crabtree. Tania Hughes delivered an outstanding performance as Monsieur LeClerc, a character who may be minor but is equally significant. Her precise comedic timing kept the audience laughing throughout the show.

The occupation officers were well cast with Jonathan Phillips as Col. Von Strohm the affable commanding officer, Oliver Handley, the flirtatious Alberto Bertonelli, Conor Stobart the camp Lt. Gruber and who was wonderfully perplexed by the conversations involving the cockatoo and Rene.  Jack Purkis was also Von. Schmelling in a second and completely different role. The airmen and supporting actors were perfect too.

Ben Davies was the gestapo officer Herr Flick and true to the original television programme was played in a comical manner with the assistance of Marissa Wainwright-Jones as Helga. Helgas anticipated striptease was highly amusing especially when she revealed the swastikas on her underwear which had been placed very strategically. Neither disappointed in their characterisation.

This production was a polished take on a well-known and beloved TV show, and I was pleased that it matched the humour and warmth of earlier versions, bringing back an era of innocent jokes and slapstick comedy.

Well done to all involved.

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