Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until Saturday 25th November 2023
Reviewed by Steph Lott
4****
Jonathan Lynn’s “I’m Sorry Prime Minister, I Can’t Quite Remember,” featuring Christopher Bianchi as Jim Hacker and Clive Francis as Sir Humphrey Appleby, is a delightful theatrical romp that seamlessly blends satire with sharp wit. Lynn, renowned for his work in the television series “Yes, Minister,” successfully transports the iconic characters to the stage with a script that is nostalgic yet fresh.
The production opens with Jim Hacker, played with impeccable comedic timing by Christopher Bianchi, grappling with yet another disastrous situation of his own making. He’s now Lord Hacker, in his eighties, and residing as Master of Hacker College, which was named after him after he raised the funds to build it. However, having made too many unfortunate remarks, he is being asked to resign. What can he do? Call on Sir Humphrey Appleby for help of course!
As the titular character, Bianchi has successfully embodied Hacker’s bumbling charm and earnestness, into the future as an old man, drawing the audience into his tangled web of nonsense. Opposite Bianchi, Clive Francis as Sir Humphrey Appleby is a masterclass in deadpan humour and bureaucratic cunning. Francis channels the essence of the original character, maintaining the polished and calculated demeanour that made Sir Humphrey an iconic figure in political satire. The chemistry with Bianchi does work, and by the end creates a dynamic reminiscent of the beloved television series. Michaela Bennison brings a lot of charm to her portrayal of Sophie, Jim’s care worker. She provides an excellent counterfoil to the 2 old men struggling to make sense of their changed circumstances as they age and are no longer public figures.
Lynn’s script is a clever amalgamation of intrigue and farcical humour, capturing the essence of the original series while adding new layers to the narrative. Lynn’s keen understanding of the political landscape both in private and public life, allows the satire to resonate with contemporary audiences, drawing parallels between the fictional world of Jim Hacker and the real world. He has also managed to bring that world into the current day and the themes of old age, loss, and the struggle to keep up with the current day resonate with many, I’m sure.
The set design by Lee Newby is lovely, capturing Jim Hacker’s new surroundings beautifully. The only issue for me was I think the positioning of the armchairs on the stage meant that the faces of the characters on one side of the stage could not be seen.
“I’m Sorry Prime Minister, I Can’t Quite Remember” is a testament to the enduring appeal of political satire and the timeless characters created by Jonathan Lynn. With stellar performances by Christopher Bianchi and Clive Francis, the production successfully brings the wit and charm of “Yes, Minister” to the stage. It’s a must-see for both fans of the original series and newcomers looking for a laugh-out-loud theatrical experience that cleverly reflects the absurdities of modern life. Lynn’s adaptation is a triumph, proving that some things are indeed unforgettable.