The Play That Goes Wrong

Premiering in 2012, this show by the Mischief Theatre Company made its debut in The Old Red Lion theatre before transferring to Trafalgar Studios and in 2014 finally moving to the Duchess Theatre, where I witnessed the play and where it will remain until 2017.

So what goes wrong?

In essence, the whole production. The play is introduced by the director of the amateur company who apologises to the 170 customers who were due to see Mama Mia! However, they are sure to enjoy Murder at Havisham Manor which is certain to be an utter joy to watch (apparently).

From the very first scene, there are giggles in every aisle. The crime is set on a snowy night in the 1920s, in a grand country house where a family has come together to celebrate an engagement. After the host of the party is poisoned, a detective is called to the manor to investigate. From here, bumbling actors miss their prompts, the sound technician forgets his cues and the murdered victim has to climb up onto the stage for the autopsy. Chaos and mirth ensue.

Chaotic, comical and crazy

Halfway through, after a large part of the stage has collapsed and one of the cast members swings through on the lighting rig as though he is Indiana Jones, I realised I'm no longer bothered about the treacherous plot. The audience yearn for the next moment of comedy which is always just seconds away.

By the end of the show the whole set has fallen down and two actors have been knocked unconscious, leaving the inept technical assistant – a twenty-year-old Scotsman – to play the leading lady. Do we discover the identity of the murderer? Yes, but nobody really cares about that anymore.

Bursting with classic slapstick comedy, over the top and farcical, the play retains an innocent charm. The seamless mix of pandemonium, absurdity and mayhem keeps the audience engaged and lively throughout. This spectacle is a must-see if you want to witness one of the best comedy acts the West End can offer.