Young reviewer RICHARD GRIBBIN gets his helping of Porridge at Newcastle's Theatre Royal, where it runs until Saturday.
THE stage production of the classic 70s prison comedy Porridge arrived at the Theatre Royal last night, in what was a vibrant and charming performance full of energy, heart and, most importantly, plenty of laughs.
It is almost impossible to remember the original television series without instantly thinking of Ronnie Barker.
With his superlative comedic timing and acting prowess, the character Fletcher soon became one of the best loved on television.
Here, Shaun Williamson, best known as the bumbling Barry in EastEnders, has the unenviable task of following such a legend.
replica tag heruer watchesIt is testament to the actor that he manages to capture quite perfectly the essence of the character.
Serving time in HM Prison Slade, Fletcher is one of those larger than life individuals, always equipped with a witty remark and always striving to get one over the authorities.
Here, passports are smuggled in and soft, expensive toilet paper is stolen from the officers' private facilities.
Indeed it is these "tiny victories", as he refers to them in a scene with cell-mate Godber (Daniel West) that get them through their time in prison, and reclaim a tiny fraction of freedom and power.
It is a rather poignant moment that provides a reflection on the isolation and dependence these men face.
That's not to say that the humour takes second fiddle though. North East writers Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais have created some new jokes, as well as packing in classic moments from the original.
sexy lingerie chinaThe fixing of a boxing match between Godber and one of the other inmates received one of the loudest ovations on the night, whilst famous lines such as "tell 'em you've got bad feet" can't fail but bring a smile to your face.
Every scene is set against the backdrop of a stage design faithful to the original show.
Although old jokes are recycled, the fact that they still work highlights both the strength of the writing and the way these characters manage to resonate with an audience.
Fletcher in particular oozes roguish charm. Calm under pressure, taking his sentence on the chin and toying with the ruthless authorities.
replica breitling watchesIt is such characteristics and themes that the cast of this performance of Porridge have so brilliantly and hilariously held onto.
CAPTION(S):
CELLMATES - Fletcher and Godber, played by Shaun Williamson and Daniel West in Porridge
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