Rising Damp

The Alhambra


It’s a risky business to take a classic 1970s sitcom packed with prejudice and bring it to the stage all these years later.

How would an audience in the much-changed world of 2013 react to an adaptation of a show often looked upon as a classic, but very much a ‘work of its time?’ Would Rigsby’s frequent expressions of racism, albeit repelled by Philip’s sharp intellect, be palatable to an audience in the modern era?

Well the audience in Bradford last night certainly seemed to enjoy the production, which was directed by Don Warrington – the Trinidad-born actor who played Philip in the original Rising Damp television series.

Perhaps it was the period costume, the dank detail of the set and 70s music that helped those present at the Alhambra look upon the performance as a snapshot, almost a social commentary, on a bygone era.

The retro feel to the night was only momentarily shattered by the sound of a mobile phone going off in the stalls during act one, scene one. How irritating, but how professional of the cast to continue unaffected.

The sharp vocals and agitated movements of Rigsby, presented so masterfully by Leonard Rossiter originally, were beautifully recaptured by Stephen Chapman, who put in a compelling performance.

There was plenty of laughter to be heard at the verbal sparring between Rigsby and his black tenant Philip, a role played with some style by Cornelius Macarthy.

At one point, Philip, who presents himself as the son of an African prince, hands Rigsby a plank of ‘love wood’ to burn outside Miss Jones’ room with a view to gaining her affections. Rigsby, convinced by Philip’s mystical powers, takes his advice, only to have the burning wood and indeed his face covered in water by a drink thrown by Miss Jones.

Amanda Hadingue, as Miss Jones, put in an expressive and provocative performance and, at points, found a great chemistry with Paul Morse, who played Alan, another tenant at the grubby flat.

The energy of the cast ensured this was not a pale imitation of the original.

The show runs until July 13. Call (01274) 432000 for tickets.