The world premiere stage-production of, Ealing classic, The Lavender Hill Mob came to Theatr Clwyd October 25-29.
Brought to life on stage by Olivier-nominated playwright Phil Porter, directed by Tony and Olivier-nominated Jeremy Sams and starring acclaimed comic actors Miles Jupp (The Durrells, Rev, The Thick Of It) and Justin Edwards (The Thick of It, 1917 and The Ferryman).
The show follows the story of Henry Holland, an unassuming bank clerk who dreams of stealing the van full of gold bullion he drives across London each day. When Henry learns that his new lodger makes Eiffel Tower paperweights out of lead, he devises a plan to make his dream a reality.
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The show utilises a unique device as a form of storytelling involving a group of Holland's friends reenacting the heist events at a New Year's Party.
Whilst this device showcased the versatility of the supporting cast, in particular Tessa Churchard as Lady Agnes and Victoria Blunt as Audrey, at times it made the narrative hard to follow.
The show truly came to life in the second half with the hilarious portrayals of cliche border control officers in Dover and Calais.
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Despite the show featuring household names in the title roles the supporting cast truly embodied the mantra of "no small roles only small actors" and delivered witty, larger than life performances.
Throughout the entire play the stage and set was utilised to perfection, especially within the scenes created to embody Paris.
The familiarity and chemistry between lead actors Justin Edwards as Pendlebury and Miles Jupp as Henry Holland lifted the play and set the audience at ease as they charmingly carried us through the tale.
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Whilst this is definitely a play as opposed to a musical the odd notes from cast members highlighted their vocal talents that potentially could have been showcased more throughout the production.
Overall, whilst it is not a laugh out loud comedy, the production offers a nostalgic and heartwarming story masterfully told through an impressive cast.
The production is currently on a UK tour and is set to perform at the New Theatre in Cardiff from November 1-5.
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