Teechers Review

Churchill Theatre, Bromley – until 8 September 2019

Reviewed by Jason Rath

2**

Personally I consider Teechers by John Godber to be one of the modern hidden gems within theatre. A play that could be just as relevant today as when it was first written if given the proper direction and care. In fact I have fond memories of delving into the political subtext of it as a youngster when I was studying the play for my GCSE’s. And all these happy memories in part contribute to why I was so disappointed with this current production of this great play. Guildford Fringe Theatre Company deliver the play as a slapstick piece of comedy that lacks the feel this show should have when commenting on the way the education system treats the downtrodden. For me it just missed the mark when dealing with these more serious moments as the way they were playing it with the maximum comedy could have totally contributed to making these hit even more if the care was given. 

Elle Banstead-Salim was good in the role of Hobby, showing the slightly tomboyish persona that makes this character shine and in another production I think she could have excelled. Sam Stay was poor in the role of Salty, with a mass of misplaced energy and tripping over his lines that reminded me of a young drama student, not a professionally working actor. However a shining gem within this piece was Dannie Harris as Gail. She showed of just how much of a multi faceted actor she is with her multiple roles in this show, each completely individual and all equally hilarious. I will not be surprised to see this lady go from strength to strength within the industry. 

The production did the best it could with the limited space of the Churchill studio, with minimal set and lighting expected in such a space. However I feel like the blame for how this production turned out can only lie with the director as there was a good show deep inside this, and if the misplaced energy and frantic performances had been reigned in then I think this could have been very good. It is a shame really. 

Overall I think that, while Teechers did have some highlights inside it, this is perhaps not the production of it you should see if you are given the option. Teechers runs at Bromley Churchill Theatre until 8th September.