Theatre: The Only Way Is Downton

East Riding Theatre
Sunday 15th February 2015, 3.00pm.

Written and performed by: Luke Kempner
Director: Owen Lewis

The only thing I knew about this play before I saw it was that it was a one man show and that he did impressions of people from Downton Abbey. I didn't really know what to expect - it could have been really bad! But it was so good. I wouldn't really describe it as him doing impressions of people from Downton Abbey, more like he played all of the characters complete with accents and mannerisms while keeping up a flowing conversation between all the characters. Sound impossible? Not for him! I was blown away by his ability and his portrayal of all the characters - he had all the mannerisms just right and he was also able to slip in and out of character seamlessly to address asides to the audience. As usual with actors playing multiple parts Kempner chose a different gesture for each character as an indication to the audience of who he was portraying and although he got a couple of these mixed up because of the fast pace of the show, it didn't matter because you could always tell who he was playing anyway. 

The script was wonderfully written and I think the fact that it was written by Kempner himself was ideal as he knew the script, the characters and he really owned it. The basic premise is that Downton Abbey is at risk of financial ruin and with the wedding of the Dowager Countess to a rather unlikely suitor to fund, various members of the house turn to various reality television shows in an attempt to raise money. This leads to other characters for Kempner to play as we see Mrs Patmore and Daisy compete in the Great British Bake Off, Miss O'Brien and Thomas appearing on Pointless and Mr Bates challenging Andy Murray at Wimbledon. In a plot that amazingly brings all these elements and more together, it is hilariously clever. 

The set, sound and lighting were fairly simple, which I think was needed in such a fast paced show, as you don't want too much going on for the audience. The set was a simple back drop of the library at Downton Abbey, which provided context, but didn't impose on the stage. The lighting and sound both helped to indicate a change in scene - and also enabled Kempner to grab a well needed drink in between scenes!

The standout moment for me was when a butterfly interrupted the performance by literally flying into Kempner's face. He dealt with it amazingly by making a joke in character to the audience. He did the same a couple of times, which I thought was great and just further highlighted his ability as a comic actor. 

I think the tour is nearly finished, but there are still a few showings left and I would highly recommend seeing it if it is near you!