The Mill at Sonning – until 13th July 2024
Reviewed by Marcia Spiers
4****
This entertaining play is based on a book released in 1889 that made lazing about on the river an attractive pass time for Brits during the summer months even to this day. Adapted for the stage the story tells of Jerome taking his friends Harris and George (plus the invisible but feisty dog) up the Thames in a rowing boat from Kingston Upon Thames to Oxford. The play is very much at home here as Sonning Mill sits right on the Thames and the group pass through the pretty village of Sonning on their travels. There were also humorous references to less attractive towns like Maidenhead and Reading on route which made the audience titter.
The play opens with the trio debating the various issues of the day and a decision made to get away from it all. James Bradshaw plays George. An excellent performance here, demonstrating adaptability by playing the various odd characters they meet along the river and including the audience in skits. I really loved his part. Likewise, an impressive performance by Sean Rigby plays the musically gifted, flamboyant Harris in his orange and yellow jacket. Entertaining us with slapstick comedy around an invisible piano (yes there were a few invisible things used to significant effect), an audience singalong and playing the different characters catching an ever-bigger fish. Last, but not least George Watkins who plays Jerome K Jerome himself. I have seen George in previous productions at the Mill and would say this was the best so far. He plays the pompous Jerome to perfection with many funny jokes. It was all very Henley!
I loved the way the boat moved around the stage, the way the props were quicky switched to dry land and the inclusion of old pictures of familiar spots along the Thames path including Sonning Bridge, Windsor, and Oxford. A great night scene very cleverly orchestrated not wishing to give too much away! There were interesting props including a hamper and other items floating on the river. The costumes were all very Regatta jackets and straw boaters, a familiar site around these parts this time of the year.
The invisible dog was a little strange at first, but this added to the comedy alongside the other invisible things. I recommend seeing this play as it provides nostalgia, fun and a summer vibe that we all need right now!