Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until Saturday 21st Oct 2023
Reviewed by Steph Lott
5*****
Set against the backdrop of 1920s England, “A Voyage Round My Father” is a poignant examination of a father-son relationship, one that is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching. Rupert Everett, in the role of the father, brings to life the character’s unique blend of brilliance, obstinacy and exasperating eccentricity. The audience finds themselves laughing at his antics one moment and moved to tears by his vulnerability the next.
Jack Bardoe, playing the son, delivers an equally remarkable performance. The son is an aspiring writer who grapples with the challenges of living with a father who is both clever and exasperatingly eccentric. Bardoe captures the essence of a young man torn between his own aspirations and the desire for his father’s acceptance and understanding. Bardoe’s portrayal is both heartfelt and compelling. Both Jack Bardoe and Rupert Everett do a fabulous job of conveying each of their characters in time as they age.
The chemistry between Rupert Everett and Jack Bardoe forms the emotional core of the play but the supporting cast also deserve much praise. They add depth and authenticity to the story, providing a window into the broader world of “A Voyage Round My Father.” There are some particular performances that are worth mentioning. Julian Wadham’s performance as the headmaster is touchingly comic as he obscurely lectures about sex to pre-pubescent schoolboys who have no idea what he’s talking about and Calum Reigate, as the son’s school friend, is charming and funny.
Richard Eyre’s direction sets a brisk pace and there is a lot of ground covered very quickly but this does not detract from the performance at all. The script is witty and sparkling and the set design by Bob Crowley is clever and evocative of the father’s beloved garden.
“A Voyage Round My Father” does not offer easy answers. The play reminds us of the universal struggle to connect with our own parents and come to terms with their imperfections and quirks.
“A Voyage Round My Father,” takes the audience on a poignant nostalgic journey through the complexities of the father and son relationship, and what changes and what remains the same as both parties age. This play is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, and both Everett and Bardoe’s portrayals are remarkable. If you have the opportunity to see “A Voyage Round My Father,” don’t miss it; you’ll embark on an emotional voyage you won’t soon forget.