Jack Ladenburg
Jerome K Jerome’s hilarious tale of a boating trip down the River Thames gone wrong has enthralled readers alike since the book was first published in 1889. Now a new touring theatre production comes home to Kingston and Three Men in a Boat is still as funny, fresh and chaotic as it has ever been
Having been adapted into a successful touring play by The Original Theatre Company and experiencing enormous success in 2012 and 2014, this Victorian saga of folly, friendship and some very British capers, is coming to the story’s starting point of Kingston upon Thames (Feb 12-14) to celebrate its 125th anniversary.
Director Craig Gilbert explains the play’s continuing appeal:
“It’s a very old story, but equally there’s some kind of magic in it too. If you read the book, as many people have, you’ll see it’s genuinely hilarious. I think it remains so popular because of the humour.”
Timeless though it is, the company have managed to breathe new life into the much-loved yarn with a superb cast of all-singing, all-dancing actors. New to this year’s tour is Salisbury-based actor David Partridge (Young, High and Dead; Doctors) who takes on the role of J.
J is the group’s self-appointed fearless leader and coincidentally, the author of the novel in which they are all a part of. When interviewed, David has commented that J is “grand, pompous and a little bit bossy, but hopefully loveable too.”
With much of Three Men in a Boat set amongst the wilds of the Surrey countryside, it is easy to see why audiences in this area of the UK is drawn to the play. Craig is quick to point out that there’s a surprisingly satisfying aspect to touring in these places, claiming:
“Whenever we perform somewhere that’s geographically relevant, people respond well… they recognise the area that’s local to them, it makes for more compelling viewing”. With an upcoming show in Dundee however, Craig hopes the response will be much the same, regardless of geographical familiarity!
It is the forthcoming performance at the Rose Theatre though, which sparks the most enthusiasm in cast and crew. It is, after all, where our ill-fated heroes depart on a journey that is to be the most eventful of their life.
It also holds a special significance for one other crucial reason.
“It’s absolutely brilliant to be performing in Kingston,” remarks Craig.
“Last time we were there we noticed that the Rose Theatre is near Jerome Place, which is actually named after the author of the novel. We had the season launch there and were incredibly excited to realise that.”
Historical landmarks and namesakes aside, this production is a shining example of how a charming tale can transcend the sands of time. It is as likeable now as it was then and is by no means a simple piece of work.
Craig puts it perfectly when he says: “Trying to sum up Three Men In a Boat in a few sentences is very difficult… it depends on how many commas I’m allowed!”
Three Men in a Boat at the Rose Theatre, Kingston upon Thames, on Feb 12-14
Tickets available from rosetheatrekingston.org