Reader Reviews
Last of the Summer Wine - The Moonbather (Mercury Theatre, Colchester)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | This was an amazing show. The cast work so well together, bringing a new and exciting approach to each performance. The completely international ensemble gives such flavor to this original production. Additionally, I enjoyed the musicians and the way they act somewhat as a barometer for how we, as the audience, should be feeling. The intimate environment of the Mercury theater really brings the audience into the play, being made to act as extras and really pulling us in. Well worth the short journey from London to see this tragic love story. - Leacia | 09 Mar 10 |
| This is one not to be missed - a big adventure, quite new, fresh, with never a dull moment, and a great Javier Alcina's Mercutio!! Around the time William Shakespeare penned this play, John Donne wrote his poem ‘The Triple Fool’, describing love’s passion being first constrained in verse, then liberated when set to music. Something similar happens to Juliet and her Romeo in this real good vision by director Ed Hughe. Javier Alcina is a tango soul Mercutio, whose red-lit Queen Mab speech is one of many highlights. - Marian | 08 Mar 10 |
| I would have rated this very poor, but for the well-executed stage set and audio effects. Saw this last in Bradford (playing to a v. small house-about 60-80 people)and found it a complete bore - neither proper farce nor a comic play - and flashers/streakers as a comic plot haven't been funny (if they ever were)since the 1970s. A confused script, delivered with inadequate projection, slack direction, poor pacing, Ruth Madoc mugging for all she's worth to keep it all going...sorry folks, if you were thinking of going and you're a fan of the TV series..really, DON'T BOTHER! - Ken C. | 29 Oct 09 |
| I'll lay my cards on the table here as one of the few that think the TV version should have been laid to bed many seasons ago but saying that went along to opening night at Colchester with an open mind. Alas it seems that this is more a desperate attempt to cash in on the brand than a vlaid theatrical event. A plot that tries to be both the gentle humour of the TV series married with a sub 'woops there go my trousers' farce doesnt sit comfortably. The cast try their best with Ruth Madoc valantly trying to steal the show but in the end the material is as creaky as some of the long winded scene transitions. Stay at home and watch the tv instead - Tim | 21 Aug 09 |
