The Victorian in the Wall

Guy’s life is running away from him without him noticing. Once a writer (he won a short story award 14 years ago, according to his talking fridge) he now finds himself stuck with a writer’s block, a girlfriend whose job is still a mystery to him, and a planned knock-through to accommodate a breakfast nook. He blames his unfinished taxes, the noisy dog outside, the washing machine downstairs that shakes the house like an earthquake and the over-friendly neighbour for his lack of focus, and fails to actually sit down and try to write the CBeebies script that will get him going again.

When his girlfriend Fi (Melanie Wilson) has to go away on business and leaves him in charge of the knock-through, life suddenly interferes. He only needs to let the builder in. It can’t go wrong. And of course it does. Chris Branch, the Pina Bausch-loving builder with a finer taste in coffee, uncovers Mr. Elms (Matthew Steer), a Victorian man who’s been trapped in the wall for the last century, and suddenly Guy finds himself occupied probing Mr. Elms for his life story and introducing him to the twenty-first century with his box set of The Wire, Skype and the wonder that is juice.

Things spin out of control firther as Fortunately Maybe (Jason Barnett), an African orphan (and fully grown adult) who Guy has been sponsoring, turns up at his doorstep calling him Daddy – causing a stir. There’s no way he’ll hit his deadline now. And his relationship is at risk.

Will Adamsdale both stars (as Guy), writes and directs (co-directing with Lyndsey Turner, Posh) and has created a show that’s liberatingly hilarious, with a childlike honesty and a touch of stand-up frankness  – it makes you smile as it kicks you in the shins. Adamsdale raises questions about our society through Guy’s lack of initiative in his work, relationship and friendships.  It’s better to try and fail than to sit still and watch life pass by, and Guy learns that he might not have control over his career, or his relationship, or his tax – but he can get the noisy dog outside removed if he tries.

The cast is multi-tasking throughout the whole show with jolly songs, a choir of East Enders, hilarious sound effects using the chaotic set of cardboard boxes, bikes and bins (singing ones too), a talking fridge and sit-com banter. Michael Vale’s set design is simple and clever (markings on the floor creates the house) and is an exciting addition to the Jerwood Upstairs.

The Victorian in the Wall has got the perfect combination of heartfelt and truthful moments, good gags and revue-style songs. It’s superbly executed and truly inspiring. A must-see this year.

The Victorian in the Wall is playing at the Royal Court Theatre until June 8. For more information and tickets, see the Royal Court Theatre website.