Bonjour, bonjour, ça va, comment allez-vous? If this is about the extent of your French, you might miss some of the humour in the new production French Toast, adapted from Féfé de Broadway by Jean Poiret (best known for the classic comedy La Cage aux Folles, which was masterfully adapted into Robin Williams’ The Birdcage). But even if your French is a little comme ci, comme ça, there’s still plenty to enjoy in this lively, fast-paced farce.
Directed by Marianne Badrichani, known for her knack for adapting French plays for British audiences through her company Gallic Gang Productions, French Toast relocates the action from Paris to Basingstoke in 1977. It’s a madcap attempt to stage a musical adaptation of Racine’s Phaedra, filled with enough esprit de corps (or lack thereof) to fuel the play’s many comedic moments.
Edith Vernes, playing the diva Jacqueline Brémont, gives a performance full of je ne sais quoi. Her comic timing is parfait, with just the right amount of over-the-top flair to make you laugh out loud. While most of her dialogue is in English, she occasionally drops in a French line or curse,to really emphasise her French-ness. Those who speak French, like my wife and I, got an extra laugh from these moments, though some jokes may have been lost on non French-speakers. However, even if you don’t catch every linguistic wink, her larger-than-life presence ensures she keeps everyone entertained. My favourite line of hers – so good I wrote it down – was: “I am out of my comfort zone, Simon, I’m in Basingstoke!” which had us all rolling in the aisles.
Ché Walker, as Simon Monk, the ex-lover and frazzled director trying to hold this sinking ship of a production together, brings a grounded energy to the role. His chemistry with Vernes provides a fun contrast, as they bicker and battle their way through this theatrical folie. Josie Benson as Faye, the musical theatre actress with a dash of grandeur, delivers some great moments, especially when her vocal talents shine during the playful rehearsal scenes. The songs are a welcome addition, giving the production an extra bit of joie de vivre.
Suzy Kohane’s portrayal of Kate brings warmth to the stage, but it’s her character’s confrontation with Geoff, the “handsy” actor played by Paul Hegarty, that resonates the most. In a world increasingly aware of personal boundaries and respect, watching Kate stand up to Geoff feels particularly relevant. What starts as comedic awkwardness evolves into a satisfying moment of empowerment, making this subplot a thoughtful nod to today’s discussions about consent. Hegarty plays Geoff with just enough louche (touchy feely) behaviour to make us uncomfortable – until Kate literally shoves him off the stage, to tumultuous applause.
Reece Richardson rounds out the cast as Nick, the confident and dashing young musician turned actor, who adds to the overall chaos with a swagger that’s more charming than annoying. His cheeky interactions with the rest of the cast give the play a youthful, mischievous energy.
Badrichani’s direction allows for a blend of farce and musical theatre, with the added bonus of a few songs (they’re rehearsing a musical, after all) that are light and hilarious, though they sometimes leave the audience unsure whether to clap or laugh – is it a play, is it a musical?? It’s all part of the fun, though – the unpredictability keeps things lively. The set design is simple yet effective, allowing the actors to dominate the stage, while the costumes, true to their 1970s setting, offer a playful splash of colour without overshadowing the action.
In the end, French Toast serves up a charming, if slightly chaotic, slice of theatrical life. It’s not aiming to be a tour de force, but that’s the point – it’s about having a great time, appreciating the folie of theatre, and getting to have a jolly good laugh both with and at the French.
So, if you’re in the mood for some légèreté (something light), grab a ticket and enjoy this slice of théâtre français à l’anglaise at Riverside Studios until 26th October!
Vive le théâtre!
To book, visit www.riversidestudios.co.uk
Words by Nick Barr
Photography by Lidia Crisafulli
