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Jus' Like That!
Oxford Playhouse
Starring Jerome Flynn
Written and created by John Fisher
Directed by Simon Callow
Magic direction by Geoffrey Durham
March 2003
Reviewed
by Joe Pike
A
lavish, flashy and showbiz-style set greeted theatregoers at the Oxford
Playhouse for the week long preview (prior to its opening at the Garrick
Theatre, London on April 8th) of John Fisher's new play about the life of Tommy
Cooper.
With Jerome Flynn as Cooper, (an actor whose credits range from TV dramas such
as 'Soldier Soldier' and 'Badger' to seasons with the RSC) and
directed by Simon Callow (appearances in 'Four Weddings and a Funeral', 'Shakespeare
in Love' and director of numerous plays) it was certainly going to be an
interesting play.
It started with the Cooperettes, six tap-dancing females who introduced our
magician to us. 'Tommy' performed bits and bobs of magic interspersed with the
inimitable one-liners. After, we moved to his dressing room where he talked
about his life: job, wife, magic, comedy and children. I felt that this part of
the play lacked slightly in the exploration of Coopers problems (especially with
drink) but there were many anecdotes of his life, which the audience greatly
enjoyed.
After the interval, the actual magic show was performed and it has to be said
that the magic, (bungled and not) was very slick (presumably due to Geoffrey
Durham's magic direction). The 'Hats' and 'Bottle Glass, Glass Bottle' routines
were both featured to great amusement.
The adlibbing by Flynn made the play so realistic (I am sure many of the
audience at some point believed they were watching the man himself), and the
fact that Flynn was alone on stage for about two hours (95% percent of the
performance) show what an accomplished performer he is.
This, with the great magic, hilarious comedy, polished dance routines, catchy
music and innovative set made for a brilliant performance. If you loved Tommy
Cooper it's a must, if you were too young to know about him it's also a must.
The laughter kept on coming and Flynn received a standing ovation from some
members of the very appreciative audience.
© Joe Pike, March 2003