A Christmas show about James Bond? Well, not quite. In Eastern Angles theatre company’s production, MI5 and MI6 have merged to save money for the new Downing Street meeting room. This means 007 is unaffordable, so we’re left with the not so charming knock-off, James Boond (Herb Cuanalo). With a mission to investigate the disappearance of a nuclear scientist and amateur birdwatcher, Professor Padraig O’Plenty, our hero’s journey is more chaotic than stylishly smooth.
Behind a silver curtain on the stage that forms part of Emily Bestow’s factory-looking playground set, complete with spray-painted silver ladders and fireman’s pole, the actors hurriedly change costumes to switch character. Despite some wholehearted performances – particularly from Lottie Davies as the larger-than-life turkey rearer, Matthew Bernarde – much of the humour feels hammy and barely gets an audience snigger. “Why are we laughing,” the evil accomplice Major Ovaranova asks international woman of mystery, Edie Effe. “Well, someone has to,” she replies – and we can’t help but agree.
Led by Boond we are introduced to a medley of not exactly traditional Bond characters. Alice Robinson convincingly transforms from the Irish almost Bond girl Kitty to secretary Spendapenny, but too often the momentum is slowed by pitchy renditions of Chris Warner’s music.
Still, this not-quite-panto directed by Ivan Cutting is somewhat lovable. Firmly set in the theatre company’s home of Ipswich (Rushmere is a nearby village), there are fond references to local supermarkets and the nearby district of California, and the high points come when the audience is spoken to directly. Though not overflowing with belly-aching gags, this alternative pantomime is full of heart.
From Rushmere With Love is at Sir John Mills theatre, Ipswich, and also live-streamed until 8 January.
