Diary of a Nobody
King’s Head Theatre
23 January 2015
4 Stars
It’s a wonderful thing to see a piece of theatre that is clearly so tightly designed and conceived, yet at the same time, maintains a sort of free-wheeling spirit usually reserved for improv comedy. And it is that sweet spot that Diary of a Nobody inhabits.
Currently at the King’s Head Theatre, Diary of A Nobody is a wonderful mix of the best bits of Python-esque slapstick, multi-performances reminiscent of the Reduced Shakespeare Company, and an extremely tight design that only adds to the purposeful haphazard nature of the production.
The costumes are reminiscent of the collection Maison Martin Margiela re-commissioned for H&M a few years back — the white paint on fabric lending a wonderful theatricality in a way that never belonged on the high street, yet absolutely belongs in this work.
All four actors give standout performances. Geordie Wright could well be the next Terry Jones with his excellent voice work, George Fouracres’ Lupin is an absolute treat, and Jake Curran’s straight man at the centre of the piece is an excellent counterpoint to the insanity which surrounds.
Jordan Mallory-Skinner’s Carrie is the jewel of the piece as she may be the funniest character of the lot—his always-on comic timing is flawless.
The only issue in the piece seems to be its ending—that is, structurally it doesn’t seem quite to know exactly how to end. But then again, Diary of a Nobody is funny from beginning to end, so its structural unease is certainly forgivable.
Diary of a Nobody is a spectacular piece of theatre, and absolutely a must-see.
Diary Of A Nobody runs until 14 February. Visit the King’s Head Theatre Website.
Review by James Garden
