Review: BEING MR WICKHAM at Jermyn Street Theatre
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| Photo credit: James Findlay |
Adrian
Lukis' Being Mr Wickham is a lot of fun, inviting the audience to find
out more about one of Jane Austen’s most interesting characters – George Wickham
from Pride and Prejudice. Co-written by Lukis and Catherine Curzon, this
one-man show is a delightful, insightful exploration of the dashing cad Mr Wickham,
giving him a platform to wax lyrical about his past misdeeds, lost loves, and
the lessons learned along the way.
What’s
great about this play is that it cleverly balances humour and pathos, as
Wickham, ever the charming rogue, regales the audience with tales of his
youthful exploits and their often calamitous consequences – and some rather
shocking and upsetting ones. Through witty wordplay and poignant soliloquies,
Lukis breathes new life into the character, making him both relatable and
reprehensible.
The set
design by Libby Watson is at once both simple and deceptively creative, and
something I particularly enjoyed was the mirror that transforms into a display
cabinet to show a very important souvenir from Wickham’s past. Is that a
symbolic reflection of Wickham's dual nature—his outward charm and the inner
truths he unveils? Whatever it’s meant to mean, it was a lovely surprise.
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Lukis'
portrayal of Wickham is a joy. Having played the character in the 1995 BBC
adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, Lukis brings a deep understanding and
authenticity to the role – he just ‘gets’ Wickham, which means, by the end of
his hour-long monologue, we get him too, whether we like it or not. Lukis’ performance
captures Wickham's roguish charm and underlying vulnerability, inviting the
audience to see beyond the villainous veneer to the man within. The monologues
are delivered with impeccable timing, and Lukis' ability to shift between humour
and hopelessness keeps the audience engaged throughout.
The
collaboration between Lukis and Curzon shines in the script, which is peppered
with historical references and clever nods to Austen's original work. The
dialogue is sharp and sparkling, capturing the essence of Wickham's character
while offering fresh insights into his motivations.
Being
Mr Wickham is a
thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience that gives a voice to one of
literature's most notorious characters. It's a must-see for Austen aficionados
and newcomers alike, earning a well-deserved four stars for its wit, wisdom,
and wickedly good storytelling.
Being Mr Wickham plays at Jermyn Street Theatre until 22nd June: https://www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk/show/being-mr-wickham/
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