Review: ALLEGRA, Richmond Theatre - Tour
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
Allegra, a new comedy play by Peter Quilter, is warm, witty and charming, and balances humorous moments with thoughtful reflections on ageing, individuality and society's norms and expectations.
Led by the marvellous Maureen Lipman in the title role, this is a feel-good piece of theatre that will bring smiles whilst also providing impactful deeper themes.
The play centres on Allegra, a woman in her later adult years, whose joyful outlook on life often puts her at odds with the world and community around her. She is notorious for singing, daydreaming and living according to her own rules, much to the concern of her brother, played by John Middleton, who tries to keep her in check. Rounding out the cast are Elizabeth Bower as Anna, Allegra's Czech carer and assistant, and Bailey Patrick as the police officer. With a small cast of four, the production feels intimate, allowing each performer plenty of space to shine.
Audiences are greeted by a splendidly detailed set, Allegra's home, which is the sole setting throughout the play. Every nook and cranny of this set is packed with personality, reflecting Allegra’s character and helping to establish her. This exceptional attention to detail creates a wonderfully lived-in environment.
One of Allegra’s greatest strengths is the script. It is extremely clever, and is remarkably fast-paced, packed with thoughtful and witty observations and sharp one-liners that have impressive precision. Allegra leads much of the humour, which Maureen Lipman delivers effortlessly. Her comic timing is superb, and she brings an infectious energy to her character.
A particularly inspired element of the production is its use of music. Allegra frequently bursts into song, either as part of everyday conversations or during four larger musical interludes that whisk the audience away into her imagination. These dream-like sequences are some of the funniest and jolliest moments in the show, enhanced by imaginative lighting, visual effects and humorous props. The other characters occasionally join in, creating wonderfully surreal moments that stand apart from the rest of the play. They are such a highlight that a few more musical numbers would have been a great treat. These musical interludes add a unique flavour that sets Allegra apart from many other comedies. The audience is also invited to participate at one point, joining in with a song, which is a lovely touch.
The cast are excellent. Maureen Lipman is a delight on stage, delivering rapid-fire dialogue with great ease and charisma. She is the heart of the show. Bailey Patrick is another standout, bringing plenty of humour and warmth to his role as the police officer. Elizabeth Bower and John Middleton provide strong support, creating believable relationships with Allegra and helping to ground the play's more whimsical elements.
While Allegra is a comedy, it has surprising depth beneath its light-hearted exterior. The play explores how society perceives those who do not fit into the accepted norms and poses thoughtful questions about individuality, ageing and independence. Although Allegra's outlook on life may seem unusual to others, audiences are left pondering what really is considered ‘normal’. It is an engaging and moving exploration of growing older, presented in a way that makes the prospect seem far less daunting than it is often portrayed.
Allegra is a delightful, uplifting and thoroughly enjoyable piece of theatre. It is funny, inventive and full of heart, offering audiences a chance to escape into another world while reflecting on some meaningful themes. Whether you are after an evening of laughter, a touching story, or simply something a little different, Allegra will hit the spot, warming your heart whilst providing much to think about an reflect on.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Alexandra Tullah