Omnibus Theatre – until April 20 2019
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
5*****
This is a well crafted monologue by Andy Barrett, the writer, providing a window into the life of a respected and admired politician. Today’s generation may not have heard of Tony Benn. This is a fitting tribute to the memory a colourful, passionate political career.
Using a tape recorder as a diary and to listen to previous entries, we are taken through Tony’s search for a fitting story, for the eulogy of yet another comrade. He has written so many it’s hard to find one not yet used.
The creatives, Rachael Jacks and Martin Curtis, have created a set that draws you in to the private world of Tony’s study. Philip Bretherton (Tony Benn) keeps you absorbed from the first moment. The director’s (Giles Croft) use of the physical context of the study keeps Bretherton (Benn) moving around, renewing the interest of the audience and piquing curiosity. Bretherton has brilliantly taken on Tony Benn’s mannerisms and irascible character, well known to an appreciative audience. The occasional murmur of familiarity at certain dates mentioned and rumble of laughter through the audience somehow increased the intimacy of the piece.
Tony (Bretherton) has promised his family this will be the last public speaking he will do – flying round the world and the UK to give a speech at a conference or rally is long gone, its now time to stop, maybe…..
This piece certainly appeals to fellow Socialists and people of a certain age, however I would strongly recommend any young person, take this opportunity to get an insight into the life of a political legend. I would watch again anytime.