First, an admission. I only initially went to see Hayley Mills. A huge fan of hers growing up and The Parent Trap being in my Top Ten favourite films of all time. However, a play is a play and there are other aspects to satisfy an appetite for Theatre, and I have always liked Rula Lenska and Paul Nicholas, so that was a bonus.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a new stage adaption of the 2011 film of the same name, and that itself, based on Deborah Moggach’s 2004 book, These Foolish Things. It’s a story about a group of British pensioners who move to a run-down retirement home in India, managed by an eager young man and his mother. With underlying themes of ageing, reflection and never being too old, this is a feelgood play with so much life. I particularly liked the lines about not feeling old in mind. I can empathise with that at 59. Bodies may get frail, but you still feel 21 inside.
An impressive set of the hotel interior from Colin Richmond was supplemented when needed by pop-up additions which were not obtrusive. And I was also impressed with the sound, courtesy of Mic Pool with an excellent musical backing score by Kuljit Bhamra MBE. What I was also pleased with on the sound was the use of microphones. I commented in a recent review about their absence and having the contrast just a week later highlighted the difference to both atmosphere and enjoyment in a large venue. To top everything off, direction at the hands of Lucy Bailey was perfect, enabling the audience to enter the world of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
Hayley Mills. What can I say? Like watching an old friend. And that is exactly what a successful career does. Makes you familiar. And the never grow old philosophy even worked here as it was just like stepping back in time to witness Endless Night or any other of the multitude of films featuring her. An outstanding performance as Evelyn. And the same can be said for Rula Lenska (of the sultry voice as Madge) and Paul Nicholas (Douglas), showing that recognisable crafty smile which should have been trademarked years ago. Still quality and certainly not ready for the retirement home yet.
This production also had an excellent supporting cast consisting of Tiran Aakel (Mr Gupta/Fernandes), Eileen Battye (Jean), Richenda Carey (Dorothy), Andy de la Tour (Norman), Kriss Dosanjh (Jimmy/Sadhu/Waiter), Shila Iqbal (Sahani), Karena Jagpal (Kamila), Rekha John-Cheriyan (Mrs Kapoor), Nishad Moor (Sonny), Marlene Sidaway (Muriel) and Anant Varman (Mohan/Tikal). Each gave everything, allowing you to really bond and understand the characters.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a wonderfully crafted story which is poignant but has you laughing when you least expect. A fantastic night out, rounded off by waiting for the first time in my life outside a stage door. Come on, I’ve said Hayley Mills is one of my all-time favourites; when else would I get a chance?
And I am happy to say she is as lovely in real life as she appears on stage and screen, making a fans’ dream come true with an autograph and photo.
I also collared the equally nice Rula Lenska, too.
Cheers.
Antony N Britt - Author 