Mrs Warren’s Profession
Birmingham Rep
9th. November 2009
By George Bernard Shaw

This second Theatre Royal Bath production in as many weeks with another “House Full” sign outside the theatre is good to see. I’m quite sure that the winning combination of well known actress Felicity Kendal (BBC’s The Good Life and more recently ITV’s Rosemary and Thyme) and author George Bernard Shaw was what brought in such a large audience of all ages. Also, both productions were top end touring shows with a top ticket price of over £30.

Of course, when George Bernard Shaw originally wrote his play back in 1894 its subject matter was not that talked about in polite circles and the play was banned for many years. What was Mrs Warren’s profession? Well, to put it plainly she along with a partner ran a continental chain of brothels. And, this is something which she has not told her daughter Vivie about in spite of it paying for her Cambridge education and generous living allowance. The play is very much about the relationship between Mrs Warren and her daughter and how the past impacts upon Vivie and those around her.

The play is well cast, all the action could be seen perfectly and it was so good to hear every word that was spoken because all the actors were able to project their voices. The sets are impressive and the whole production speaks quality.

Max Bennett as Frank gave a polished performance as firstly the suitor and then the potential half brother of Vivie. Another familiar face, actor Eric Carte looked just the part as the Rev Samuel Gardner and he too has it seems some explaining to do. Mark Tandy played Praed another but more kindly old friend and advisor of Mrs Warren’s.

David Yelland who I will always remember as TV Rumpole’s son Nick and who has done awfully well ever since, played Sir George Crofts not only the business partner of Mrs Warren but also the unsuccessful suitor of Vivie. He played the part with great charm and whilst Crofts was clearly a rogue he seemed to have got away with it for decades.

Lucy Briggs-Owen was excellent as the no nonsense Vivie and handled this key role with confidence and the scenes with her mother are highlights of the play. Felicity Kendal as Mrs Warren was immaculately costumed and well directed by her husband Michael Rudman. Listen out for the vocal fury that she explodes when confronted. She was a most believable Mrs Warren and received great applause from the audience. It was in fact a performance to enjoy.

With attractive country life sets and excellent costumes this is a traditional production that you would have seen in the West End and having the opportunity to see it on tour is a real plus for the winter season at the Rep. Running time 2 hours and 20 minutes including the interval.

Clive Fuller

The tour continues with
Richmond Theatre Richmond-upon-Thames November 16-21
Festival Chichester November 23-28
Malvern Theatres Malvern December 7-12