The Rivals, first performed in 1775, is celebrated chiefly for its author Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s creation of Mrs Malaprop, a woman whose mangling of English — such as saying "progeny" when she means "prodigy" — inspired the enduring term "malapropism".
In Sheridan’s partly autobiographical comedy of manners, this snobbish woman is played by Celia Imrie with arch garrulousness — a muddled meddler convinced that she is captivating.
Jessica Swale’s production fares best when spiced with contemporary piquancy.
At the outset we’re treated to a sort of 18th-century remix of Beyoncé, and the audience loves being softened up.
However, Sheridan’s plot is fatiguing and it’s not hard to become disorientated by the gusts of flamboyant verbiage.
Robin Soans is enjoyably vigorous, Charity Wakefield vernally fresh, and Ella Smith likeable and precise.
As the blustering dunce Bob Acres, Christopher Logan is relishably daft.
Yet only Harry Hadden-Paton, as the charming Captain Jack Absolute, really conveys the double-edged sharpness of Sheridan’s jokes.
Mounting the play on a stage so wide and shallow means there’s little depth, literally and figuratively.
This is a satire on pretentiousness and sentimental excess that has charm but little snap.
The Rivals — until 30 Jan. Info: 020 7407 0234.
The Rivals
Southwark Playhouse
Shipwright Yard, corner of Tooley Street and Bermondsey Street, SE1 2TF
