Review: THE MISER, Garrick Theatre

Following stints in Bath and Richmond, Sean Foley and Phil Porter's new adaptation of the Molière classic is now in the West End's Garrick Theatre for a limited run. Whilst it does retain a satirical edge, its main aim is to entertain - and it does so in spades.

The widower Harpagon (Griff Rhys Jones) has a secret stash of money, but he refuses to make use of his wealth or even share it generously with his grown-up, but as yet unmarried, children Cléante (Ryan Gage) and Elise (Katy Wix). In order to further increase his bounty, he plans a triple wedding - he will marry the young Marianne, Cléante her mother and Elise Monsieur Anselme, the elderly gentleman who lives next door.

The siblings are dismayed by this turn of events, as they have both already found love matches: Cléante with Marianne and Elise with Valère, their butler. They conclude that the only way they will free themselves is to steal their father's hidden money and use it as a bargaining tool. But as time ticks away, they find their options decreasing...

This production certainly goes for the big laughs, employing slapstick comedy alongside The Play That Goes Wrong-esque set jeopardy, as Harpagon's house literally starts crumbling around him. It may still be set in 17th-century France, but the adaptation uses anachronistic speech to enable satire and relevant social commentary - such as some amusing comments alluding to the Chancellor and cuts . The second act does drag a little in places, and doesn't feel quite as punchy as the first, but on the whole fantastic use is made of a highly comical cast.

Lee Mack makes his West End debut as Jack-of-all-trades servant Maître Jacques; his style will be recognisable to viewers of hit sitcom Not Going Out, but nonetheless it does the job. Mack's experience of stand-up comedy and filming in front of live studio audiences has prepared him well for this, in particular moments that don't go according to plan - he is quick to improvise and keep people laughing.

It would be impossible not to mention Wix and Gage as the fed-up siblings, each portraying their character with a different lisp; it may not be hugely sophisticated humour, but it's undeniably hilarious.

Griff Rhys Jones has had a long and varied career, but this role could prove to be a highlight. He seems to revel in playing up Harpagon's immorality and selfishness, as well as engaging fully with the audience.

The Miser is a bawdy farce that ticks all the boxes for a great night out. It is a little over the top and repetitive in places, and slightly hazardous for anyone sat quite close to the front (watch out for your drinks in the front row!), but these are minor criticisms for what is a very entertaining comedy. Don't be a penny-pincher like Harpagon, go and see it for yourself!

The Miser is at the Garrick Theatre until 3 June

Picture credit: Helen Maybanks