Mrs Browns Last Wedding
September 27, 2007
Sunderland Empire
Mrs Browns Last Wedding was Irish comedian Brendan O’Carroll first outing at the Empire in the guise of Mrs Agnes Brown and at the standing ovation curtain call he announced all four plays in his trilogy (his words) would play the Empire within the next 18 months. The audience reaction last night clearly showed the Sunderland audience were ready for O’Carrolls humour and he had found a new fan base, no doubt word of mouth will enhance the audience figures by the end of the week.
It is not often that a production billed as a comedy truly lives up to its name but this production constantly left not only the audience helpless with laughter, but at times also the cast, as O’Carroll clearly ad-libbed, stopping them in their tracks. As in all good comedies the story is convoluted and far fetched, but due to the writing (by O’Carroll himself) and performers, while watching it appears to make perfect sense.
This story revolves around Agnes Brown preparing for one of her four son’s wedding and her idea of installing a downstairs toilet to impress the future in-laws. Unfortunately the son who is getting married, Trevor doesn’t want to, but his brother Dermot does. Her other son Mark, who is already married has been thrown out by his wife and arrives to stay with his Mother. The remaining son Rory is trying to tell her that he’s gay, while her divorced daughter, Cathy is training as a psychologist and thinks the family should have an open discussion to clear the air.
Although there is a lot of bad language in the production, I doubt anyone could be offended as they would be too busy laughing to notice. Infact for once the language only adds to the comedy. Last nights audience ranged from teenagers to senior citizens and this identifies the skill O’Carroll has with his writing of the plays as he appeals to all ages who can easily identify with the characters on stage.
Mrs Brown is assured of a warm welcome when she returns to the Empire and is highly recommended, just remember some tissues to wipe away the tears of laughter, as you will need them.
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