Only When I Laugh

Synopsis

1950s Theatre Manager Stanley is not having a good day. His band are stuck in traffic, his number two comic is cavorting with one of his tap-dancing twins, and a top-billing singer is on her way from London - but the top of the bill belongs to Reg, number one comic and hero of the working classes...

Our Review:

4 February 2009

After an initial week at Greenwich the Love & Madness Ensemble is touring Jack Shepherd’s new play, Only When I Laugh or A Class Act, through Scotland and the North. Sadly there is no sign of the play living up to its sub-title.

Set in Leeds Empire in the last days of variety. Plenty of things happen, but no real plot develops. Theatre manager Stanley Hinchcliffe is plagued by a series of problems: the band’s held up in traffic, the Watch Committee has its eye on comedian Reg Henson’s blue material, most of the artists seem on the brink of either collapse, extra-marital relationships or quitting the business. Worst of all the London office has replaced the second on the bill with a best-selling girl pop singer who looks set to usurp Reg’s position in the Number 1 dressing room and the second half finale.

The trouble is that none of these develop. In particular singer Janey Shore proves so amenable that, without any argument, she settle...

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