Writers: David Croft and Jimmy Perry
Adaptors: David Benson and Jack Lane
For those of a certain age, the phrases ‘you stupid boy’, ‘we’re doomed’ or ‘don’t panic!’ will start a wistful twinkle in the eye that will rapidly turn into a chuckle and, quite possibly, an outright laugh. For these were catchphrases from Dad’s Army, the TV sitcom that dominated the airwaves in the late 1960s/early 1970’s and drew in regular audiences in excess of 18 million people. Something modern TV shows can’t even dream of.
For the uninitiated, or anyone under 50, Dad’s Army tells of the comic misadventures of a group of men, too old or unfit for active duty, who are volunteer soldiers in the Home Guard during World War Two. Set in the fictional town of Warmington-on-Sea, the Home Guard are part-time soldiers tasked with defending their respective neighbourhoods should there be a German invasion.
The TV show ran for nine series and even spawned a couple of feature films, but in Dad’s Army Radio Show, the performers and creative leads (David Benson and Jack Lane) have taken three full episodes to recreate on stage. As the show’s title suggests, this is not a full-blown stage production of those episodes, but rather a radio performance of specially adapted versions of the original scripts.
The stage setting is basic but made to feel of its time. There are two microphones on stands, between which is a 1940s-style suitcase, with two enamel cups (refreshment for the two performers) and a mock 1940s radiogram placed on top. Jack Lane has a small remote control in his hand which operates a recording that provides music, including the much-loved theme tune, and special effect sounds. The rest is down to Lane and Benson.
Yes, these two gents, between them, re-enact the full cast of over 12 characters, with each being an impersonation of the original. The accuracy of their impersonation is spot on and seeing the actors embody the characters and switch between them is a fascinating joy.
Whilst their talent for mimicry is beyond doubt, their performances are far from sketch show parody. Benson and Lane embody the characters and deliver the same level of emotion and depth you’d get from the original production. Were you not watching them on stage, you’d be hard-pressed to believe you weren’t listening to the original cast, or at least a full cast re-enactment.
David Croft and Jimmy Perry’s scripts are, as one might expect, a comic joy. Tightly written, wonderfully funny, but also shining a social spotlight on life at that time. Dad’s Army Radio Show has been performing various episodes of the show since 2017. For this run, they’ve selected three from the last series of the TV show – The Love of Three Oranges, The Miser’s Hoard, and The Making of Private Pike. These were selected as they are more character-driven with less physical humour.
While it is fair to say that anyone who has previously seen the show will resonate more immediately with this version, there is so much for a newbie to enjoy. Whilst the various characters, their vocal mannerisms or catchphrases may not be immediately funny or noticeable, the deft performances and wonderful scripts will be a delight for all to experience.
Dad’s Army Radio Show is a delightful homage to a show that is, rightly so, considered one of Britain’s best sitcoms. It delivers a faithful and loving re-enactment that will delight all who see it and drive many to (re)visit the originals.
Runs until 22 June 2024
