Michael Praed, Noel Sullivan and Carley Stenson in the touring production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Picture: Phil Tragen
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels was reviewed at the Empire Theatre, Liverpool and continues its UK tour until 28 November 2015.
Rating: 4 stars ★ ★ ★ ★
It may not have lasted the course in the West End but that hasn’t and isn’t stopping Jerry Mitchell’s UK production and new cast of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels giving the audience exactly what they want… a fun-filled evening of mischievous and melodic musical comedy.
Based on the movie starring Michael Caine and Steve Martin, this tale of two conmen making their riches in the Mediterranean lends itself brilliantly to the musical theatre treatment. Jeffrey Lane stays relatively faithful to the classic celluloid comedy in the libretto, to which David Yazbek infectiously injects clever and witty songs throughout.
Michael Praed pulls off an air of elegance as the silver fox Lawrence Jameson. While he may not have the pizzazz that Robert Lindsay gave to the role, he does add more class and sophistication than his predecessor. Chemistry is strong alongside Noel Sullivan as the young American con artist Freddy Benson – here Sullivan flexes his vocal chops with considerable panache and finally finds a role which allows him to showcase off his considerable acting talents too… a part he is more naturally fitted to than many of those in past productions.
The show really comes alive with the introduction of Carley Stenson as Christine ‘The Soap Queen‘ Colgate. The stage buzzes with energy thanks to a career defining performance – knocking the socks off her portrayal as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. She shows just what a versatile performer she is… one couldn’t help but think she would make the perfect Wednesday Addams if The Addams Family ever gets the professional UK production it deserves.
Strong support is also given by Mark Benton as chief of police Andre Thibault – never has a gorilla impression been so well received. He clearly relishes his time on stage and equally delights the audience watching. Likewise, Phoebe Coupe makes a leg-slapping show-stealing cameo as the Texan Jolene Oakes.
As touring productions go Dirty Rotten Scoundrels gives plenty for your pound. However, it is easy to see where the production is also saving on its expenses too. Gone is the delightful multi-purpose grand staircase from the stage design that delighted audiences in the show’s pre and West End run. This results in some rather clunky chorus sections as maids and butlers sashay for space on the floor.
These are minor flaws though in an otherwise highly enjoyable production which keeps the pace, laughter and songs coming thick and fast.
Kevin Byrnes
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