The Comedy About A Bank Robbery – Storyhouse, Chester

Writers: Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, Henry Shields

Director: Mark Bell

Reviewer: John Roberts

Mischief Theatre need to be congratulated once again in creating a rip-roaring, laughter filled piece of physical comedy. While it may not be as tight or as slick as their breakthrough production The Play That Goes Wrong, The Comedy About A Bank Robbery still gives its audience a deliciously delightful evening at the theatre.

Mischief bring their own twist and turns to the crime/heist genre with an impressive array of slick routines, hilarious wordplay, genius physical comedy, sharp vocals and a set that literally steals the show. Under the helm of Mark Bell, Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields’ comedy goes full tilt and showcases the young versatile cast phenomenally, occasionally the pace flags a little, but when routines are in full swing, you can’t help but have tears rolling down your face.

Telling the tale of a group of friends who decide to rob an incredibly large and valuable diamond that is being guarded by the local bank, we follow the up and downs of their criminal lives as well as their personal much to the delight of the audience.

It would be all too easy to give what happens in the production away, but to do that would be a major disservice to audiences who get to witness this first-class comedy production for themselves. Seán Carey as the pickpocket Sam Monaghan is delightful and his physical finesse is tested throughout, likewise, George Hannigan in a multitude of roles is highly impressive especially with his Act II opening sequence. Julia Frith makes a perfect femme fatale as Caprice Freeboys, while David Coomber as Neil Cooper and Jon Trenchard secure the audience’s sympathy with their lovable yet simple characters. Damien Lynch delights as bank manager Robin Freeboys and on press night Eddy Westbury takes on the role of Mitch Ruscitti with confidence – although at times a little too uptight in delivery.

David Farley’s set has a few surprises up its sleeve and a moment in act two literally turns the world upside down to brilliant effect. If Mischief Theatre continue to create shows of such a high standard, then one is extremely excited to see what transpires with their next production Grown Ups which opens in the West End later on in the year.

Runs until 2 February 2019 | Image: Darren Bell