Allegra – A New Comedy – Richmond Theatre and touring

Allegra, Richmond Theatre

Well, what a delightful little gem this turned out to be.

As usual, I arrived with absolutely no expectations. I sat down knowing very little about the play other than the fact it was described as a comedy. In theatre, that can sometimes be a warning rather than a recommendation. I also knew that Maureen Lipman was starring, and I’ve always liked her since the famous BT commercials. Apparently she made 55 of them. She has enjoyed a remarkable career on stage and screen, but for me she will always be one of those instantly recognisable and reassuring performers.

So what transformed an ordinary evening at Richmond Theatre into such an enjoyable experience?

Part of the answer lies with playwright Peter Quilter. His work has travelled the world and his reputation for writing entertaining, character-driven stories is well established. Allegra is his latest play, and it feels fresh, playful and full of life.

The real highlight, however, is Maureen Lipman herself.

Some actors perform a role. Lipman seems to disappear into it. From the moment she arrives on stage, she feels completely at home in the character. Nothing appears forced. Every line lands naturally, every expression feels genuine, and she carries the audience along with her effortlessly. Rather than delivering a performance, she simply seems to exist as Allegra.

What struck me most was the sense of enjoyment. Here is an actress with decades of experience who still appears to be having enormous fun. That energy spreads throughout the theatre. You find yourself smiling simply because she is smiling.

I won’t reveal too much about the story because part of the pleasure comes from discovering its surprises for yourself. What I will say is that the play frequently ventures into the unexpected. I’ve always loved theatre and film that are willing to step outside reality for a moment. The dreamlike, the surreal and the slightly absurd often create the most memorable moments.

Allegra embraces this wonderfully. There are several scenes where reality bends just enough to take the audience somewhere unexpected. Characters reveal different sides of themselves, situations become delightfully bizarre, and the imagination is allowed to run free. Each sequence feels distinct, inventive and genuinely funny.

Beneath the laughs, there is also a warmth to the play. It celebrates individuality and reminds us that life becomes far more interesting when people refuse to fit neatly into boxes.

Most of all, it belongs to Maureen Lipman. At 80, she commands the stage with remarkable ease and proves that great performers do not lose their magic.

Allegra, thank you for such an enjoyable evening.

Review by Douglas McFarlane