Are you being served

Taking on Are You Being Served? is always a brave choice. It’s such a well-loved piece with very specific rhythms and instantly recognisable characters, so the challenge of bringing that to life on stage is a significant one. Of course, the script comes from the original writers, Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft, which makes it all the more interesting to see how that familiar humour translates into a live setting.

This production clearly came from a place of real affection for the original, and that was evident throughout. There were moments where that charm came through, particularly in individual performances and in a much stronger Act 2, which found a better sense of energy and flow. That said, the transition from screen to stage didn’t always feel fully resolved. Without the pace and tight delivery that works so well on television, some scenes felt a little stretched, and the overall rhythm didn’t quite settle, particularly in Act 1.

What is clear, though, is that this is a company that cares deeply about what it does. That came through in the warm welcome, the effort on stage, and the strength of the creative elements, particularly the set. There is a solid foundation here, and with a sharper focus on pace, ensemble chemistry and how the humour lands for a live audience, this could become a more cohesive and engaging piece.

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