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More sallies than satire in this Gogol reimagining but still a highly entertaining watch.Summary
Rating
Good
The Government Inspector, written by Nikolai Gogol, is renowned for its morally dubious characters and ruthless reflection of the ills within the ruling classes, and is regarded as ground-breaking for its time.
The story follows a struggling opportunist who is erroneously confused for a high-ranking government inspector by the corrupt local officials in a provincial, small town. The officials embark on a host of ethically questionable schemes hoping a greased palm may turn a blind eye to their wrongdoings. The play’s reputation as a landmark in satirical theatre is due to its searing analysis of societal hypocrisy and corruption as seen through Gogol’s lens.
Legend has it that Gogol was inspired to write the play after fellow author Alexander Pushkin shared his experience of being mistaken for a government official in a regional town. The play premiered in 1836 with Tsar Nicholas I being among the guests present. The Tsar had a surprisingly positive review despite the play’s controversial reflection on the country’s bureaucracy at the time.
Adapted and directed by Patrick Myles, this take on the classic includes many quintessential jokes suited for British humour. When Reverend Jargogle (David Hartley) proclaims to Ivan Grubble (Dan Starkey) that he has “no authority!” it draws a knowing chuckle from the audience who connect the reference to the chaotic Handforth parish council Zoom call captured in 2021 which, in many ways, mirrors the ramshackle gathering of the characters in the play.
The production features many recognisable actors including Kiell Smith-Bynoe from the BBC’s Ghosts, whose performance as the bumbling chancer Percy Fopdoodle is a surprising stand out. Peter Clements is also enjoyable as the ‘boiled pears’ obsessed Ivan Brabble.
Being a densely worded script, it’s a shame that a lot of the dialogue is lost either due to lines being spoken too fast or too quietly. Many a punchline fails to land, instead evaporating into the vastness of the auditorium.
This is a slick and well-choreographed production that succeeds in capturing the disarray expected from a farce. However, whilst it maintains the light-hearted and humorous tone of Gogol’s signature style, it lacks the biting parody that makes the original so remarkable. With only a few pop culture references, Myles makes no direct attempt at contemporary observation and loses the satirising power which is the play’s foremost intention.
Despite its flaws, The Government Inspector is a funny and engaging play and is sure to entertain audiences at the Marylebone Theatre this spring.
Written by Nikolai Gogol
Adapted and Directed by Patrick Myles
The Government Inspector plays at Marylebone Theatre until 15 June. Further information and bookings can be found here.
