Absurd Person Singular – Incisive Comic Genius from Alan Ayckbourn

Nige Burton discovers a real kitchen-sink comedy

Alan Ayckbourn is one of the UK’s most prolific and best-loved playwrights, and it’s easy to see why. With 72 full-length plays to his name, his work has made an enduring impact on the theatre world. And with Bill Kenwright’s new production of his 1972 classic Absurd Person Singular currently touring the UK, his evergreen writing has another chance to wow audiences.

The format of the play is a little unconventional, yet perfectly formed. Three acts, three couples, three kitchens, three abortive Christmas celebrations. The collisions of ambitions, intentions and personalities makes for a richly layered comic experience that’s a delight to behold.

It’s a character study par excellence, as rich in belly laughs as it is in uncomfortable cringes and the blackest of humour. From the ham-fisted social climbing of Jane and Sidney, through the neuroses and power-games of Eva and Geoffrey, to the jaded dependencies of Marion and Ronald, the myriad foibles and failings of the human animal are laid bare with Ayckbourn’s characteristically incisive style.

Of course, writing of this calibre deserves expert handling, so it’s reassuring that this production of Absurd Person Singular is brought to the stage by seasoned professionals Deborah Grant, Lisa Kay, Matthew Cottle, Elizabeth Carling, Stephen Beckett and Robert Duncan. The on-stage chemistry between all six performers brings Ayckbourn’s splendid observations to life, the story’s changing dynamics allowing each actor to shine in turn.

Slick production values bring the whole show together. Lush set design and crisp direction – particularly during the brilliantly macabre second act – keep the action unfolding quickly and the jokes snapping at each other’s heels, while the slower-burning gags unfold with delicious inevitability. Even those already familiar with Ayckbourn’s work will discover something new in this masterful production.

Absurd Person Singular is the perfect illustration of truly timeless, quality comedy writing. That the humour has not dated one iota is testament to Ayckbourn’s work: this keenly observed new production is sure to have audiences howling in 2009 just as it has done since 1972. You cannot afford to miss it.

Review at The Grand Theatre, Blackpool. www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

The Grand Theatre, Blackpool
Monday 12 to Saturday 17 October 2009
Box Office 01253 290190
Book Online www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

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