A SERVANT to Two Masters is a Heinz 57 variety of plot, language, costume and form.
It is sometimes tragic, often farcical, occasionally romantic and very, very funny.
This is largely down to Jason Watkins' portrayal of the harlequin servant, Truffaldino.
His timing, facial expressions and array of different voices was very engaging and he played expertly to and with the audience, which must have come as a surprise to those sitting in the front row.
He managed to bring the essence of Carlo Goldini's original zany character to the play but mixed it with odd but complementary ingredients such as Norman Wisdom, Stanley Laurel and Jasper Carrot.
Malvern Theatres may not be putting on a pantomime this year but without sounding derogatory, this play is the next best thing.
It's theatre entertainment at its best without the singing and dancing elements and Lee Hall's contemporary adaptation of the original meant that the 2-hour production did not induce yawns and surreptitious glances at watches.
Other mentions should go to Catherine Tate, who, as the strutting Smeraldina, won the support of the women in the audience with her passionate condemnation of the male of the species while Patrick Marlowe's impression of the slick waiter was well received.
And the set design was the icing on the cake with innovative and fluid set changes.
The Servant to Two Masters continues until tomorrow, Saturday, October 28 at Malvern Theatres.
Kate Williams
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