Al and Bet’s mundane existence takes a turn when she wins a competition in her puzzle magazine – and a prize trip to Paris.
Shobna Gulati and Joe McGann expertly capture their characters’ boredom with life and each other; timing in their verbal tennis is impeccable.
However Bet in particular is unpleasant, and it’s depressing to watch Al suffer her derision, even when he gives as good as he gets.
It’s supposed to be funny, but the couple’s bickering and sarcasm is relentless; there is no cosiness for relief.
John Godber is mistaken to think sitting through a two-hour slanging match is entertaining. That Al converts to entering competitions is not a sufficient outcome.
Some scenes have potential for humour - Bet disco-dancing, Bet being sick overboard – but are dragged out. That Bet leans against Al’s just-painted fence is careless direction.
A decision to put stagehands in ‘French’ costume and white gloves is unfathomable.
The second half, their trip to Paris, brings no reprise. The colourful set is effective, modelling famous landmarks – Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame - but magic is limited to the twinkle of fairy lights.
Here, Al typifies the worst of Brits abroad, unenlightened and far from endearing.
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