CityLife

Derek Griffiths simply shines in this outrageously funny adaptation of the French seventeenth century satirical comedy. He plays Harpagon, the tight fisted father who plans to marry both his son and his daughter off for money, rather than letting them follow their hearts’ desires. Elise and Cleante however, have other ideas, and the play follows their hilarious attempts to outwit him.<br /> <br /> Helena Kaut-Howson’s production is non stop side splitting action, and Griffiths sparkles in this stand out role, where he has the audience eating out of his hand and holding onto their handbags. It has a pantomime feel in places, as he draws them into his miserly world. Despite being over three hundred years old, the play feels as fresh as a daisy, with very current and relevant references to credit and banks thrown in for good measure.<br /> <br /> There is great support from the cast, notably from Danny Lee Wynter as the dandy son Cleante, and Helen Atkinson Wood as the scheming matchmaker Frosine. The costumes are very striking in a Vivienne Westwood sort of way, if a little odd in parts, especially the women’s revealing dresses. The set is up to the usual excellent standard for the Royal Exchange.<br /> <br /> Don’t miss this hilarious production, it will have you roaring with laughter, and holding onto your wallets.<br />