The Government Inspector

Overall, it feels incredibly watered down, an interesting choice given that present-day politics have become so outrageous, farcical and bewildering. Modern-day audiences barely flinch when presented with such thematic explorations which now seem way less controversial and more casual.

Granted, the show is packed with infinite jokes and slapstick moments, but the extent to which this happens makes the humour feel forced down one’s throat, lacking sophistication in their delivery. There is no breathing space, leaving very little set-up for all the jokes to pay off.

Movement director Kate Tydman and fight director John Sandeman choreograph hilarious sequences that happen so frequently, the production feels predictable and unvaried after a while.

Much credit goes to the cast for fighting to make every moment the best it can be. They bring explosive performances to the stage, their energy driving the entire production. It is their personal charm as TV stars, and  their unwavering dedication to the work and supporting one another, that keeps the audience rooted to their seats.

Ironically, there may be more opportunity for everyone to shine if the script is halved, thus allowing them to mean what they say, rather than delivering the lines at breakneck speed.