Review: Blackadder Goes Forth at the Barn Theatre in WGC

A scene from Blackadder Goes Forth at the Barn Theatre in Welwyn Garden City. (Image: Simon Wallace / MeltingPot Pictures)

Almost 40 years ago we were introduced to Edmund Blackadder in the first of four series of the classic TV sitcom.

Blackadder Goes Forth is probably the most well-known, winning two BAFTAs.

The last episode, Goodbyeee, broadcast in November 1989, is often considered the finest finale in television comedy history, and this was one of four episodes presented in the Barn production.

Taking on a staple of British comedy is always going to be a brave choice.

Audiences will not only be familiar with the stories and characters created by Richard Curtis and Ben Elton but also the gags, delivery and even the staging.

In addition, there’s the typical ‘television to stage’ challenge of recreating multiple locations in a limited space, especially true for a venue such as the Barn.

However, Keith Thompson has experience in this area, having directed another classic sitcom, Dad’s Army, in 2008, also set in wartime, albeit England in WW2 rather than a Flanders trench in 1917.

Performance areas were cleverly created not just for the trench and dugout but also a Chateau HQ, a field hospital, courtroom and two prison cells.

All worked well, although there were inevitable spacing and sight line challenges, particularly if multiple actors were in a single scene.

A scene from Blackadder Goes Forth at the Barn Theatre in Welwyn Garden City. (Image: Simon Wallace / MeltingPot Pictures)

In terms of the characters, nobody particularly looked or sounded exactly like their television counterparts but in many cases expressions, mannerisms and essence were well-captured.

Paul Russell expertly led the production as Captain Blackadder, desperately trying to escape the trenches only to be thwarted by circumstance, ineptitude or both.

His outstanding comic timing quite rightly earned a sack load of laughs from the near sell-out audience.

Andrew Read looked the part as the long-suffering Baldrick, delivering some gags well.

Occasional pacing issues did not prevent the quality of the writing coming through.

Steve Deaville was the closest characterisation to the series, playing the ever-optimistic George. Steve’s excellent facial expressions demonstrated how effective non-verbal comedy can be.

Captain Darling was convincingly played by Carl Westmoreland, his scenes with Blackadder and Melchett among the highlights of the evening.

Newcomer Andy Mills invested General Melchett with a pompous dominance.

Blackadder Goes Forth at the Barn Theatre in Welwyn Garden City. (Image: Simon Wallace / MeltingPot Pictures)

Jessica Wall impressed as Nurse Mary, with Stephanie Cotter the object of lust for Lord Flashheart, played with energy by Alfie Hart.

Of the remaining cameo parts, the firing squad delivered their comedy well and Mike Smith amused as Brigadier Smith. Adam Dryer made an hilarious Baron Von Richthofen. 

At times cast members spoke too quickly, or over laughter, which meant some jokes were unfortunately missed. I did see the opening night, so it’s likely this improved as the cast became used to audience reactions.

I was interested to see how the final scene of Goodbyeee would be staged, being an iconic piece of television history. There was a clear change of momentum as slapstick and gags subsided and those readying for the final push became resigned to their fate.

The final tableau and absence of a curtain call was powerful, although I would have preferred the house lights to have not immediately come up and the auditorium doors to have remained closed, just for a moment, to allow a little audience reflection.

I must commend the superb set dressing from Peter and Kris Moore, as well as the wonderful costumes, organised by Anne Mawer and Anne-Marie Austin. These are the kind of details that regularly place the Barn ahead of other local groups.

Blackadder Goes Forth successfully treads the sensitive line between British gallows humour and the sacrifices made by so many.

An entertaining show which continues until Saturday, although I believe those remaining have sold out.