Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until Saturday 10th February 2024
Reviewed by Steph Lott
5*****
“The Time Machine: A Comedy” at the Cambridge Arts Theatre is a delightful, whimsical romp through time that will leave audiences in stitches while also pondering the deeper science of time travel. Written by the talented duo of Steven Canny and John Nicholson, and expertly directed by Orla O’Loughlin, this production breathes new life into the classic tale of time travel with a fresh comedic twist and a good splash of absurdity.
There are 3 characters on stage: George, Amy and Michael. George (played by George Kemp) brings a blend of charm and wit to the role, whist being very annoying! He manages to combine eccentricity and earnestness, with a good dose of arrogance. Opposite Kemp is Amy (played by Amy Revelle) who is a wonderful feisty counterpart to the 2 men. And rounding out the stellar cast is Michael Dylan, playing Michael. His is a complex role (I won’t say why – no spoilers here!) and Dylan delivers a tour de force performance. All 3 performers are excellent at physical comedy. The action is fast, slick and perfectly timed. And by the end of the play all 3 have managed to endear themselves to the audience.
The production has an apparently simple set design. However, the way that the set works, combined with the lighting and sound is extremely effective. Fred Meller, Colin Grenfell and Greg Clarke have really done an excellent job. The evocative lighting and atmospheric sounds result in a truly immersive theatrical experience that engages the senses and sparks the imagination.
But what truly sets “The Time Machine: A Comedy” apart is its clever and thought-provoking script. Canny and Nicholson expertly balance humour with themes of science and friendship (not often brought together on stage I would say!) weaving together laugh-out-loud moments with considerations of the nature of time, progress, and humanity. While the play never takes itself too seriously, it does manage to leave audiences both entertained and intellectually stimulated.
Director Orla O’Loughlin deserves immense praise for bringing all these elements together into a cohesive and captivating whole. Her vision and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of the production, from the performances to the technical elements to the overall pacing and rhythm of the play. Under her guidance, “The Time Machine: A Comedy” unfolds like a well-oiled machine, seamlessly blending humour, heart, and science into an unforgettable theatrical experience. O’Loughlin seamlessly blends elements of physical comedy, slapstick humour, and heartfelt emotion to create a theatrical experience that is both hilarious and intriguing.
In conclusion, “The Time Machine: A Comedy” at the Cambridge Arts Theatre is a must-see for theatregoers of all ages. With its mighty cast, imaginative staging, and witty script, this production offers a delightful journey through time that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a fan of the original novel or simply looking for a night of laughter and entertainment, . The production has both whimsy and wonder, inviting audiences to suspend their disbelief and join the characters on their fantastical journey through time.