The Moment of Truth review, Southwark Playhouse

Peter Ustinov is the polymath whose natural successor is Stephen Fry. Ustinov's long forgotten, and beautifully witty play, The Moment of Truth, has been dusted down and revived with another favourite blast from the past, Rodney Bewes of Likely Lads fame, taking a leading role. In an era where 'vintage' is cool, it's good to report that the play is great fun. The Moment of Truth, however, comes in the final act when you realise the plot has lost its way.

Cabinet fever

We kick off in the cabinet room of an unnamed power, on the brink of losing a war with a neighbouring state. All the Cabinet, but for the PM and his Foreign Minister, have resigned. Even the Minister without portfolio has resigned from a portfolio he never had. Cue some reflection that is part Goon Show, part Yes Prime Minister. As the General - recently promoted form  Lieutenant to cover for yet another absconding official - refuses the PM's demand that he negotiate a surrender, the leader bemoans the unnecessary loss of lives - so many educations, so many personalities, so many envelopes carrying bad news.  Then surrender becomes inevitable...

What we have is a parable showing how cynically politicians stand by as history repeats itself. As the new power takes over, the PM recalls the retired head of the army to build national unity. Still highly popular, The Marshal represents cohesion, but is now very old and very very mad. We get pronouncements and events that border on farce but are presented as if serious political ruminations - like a spoof of Three Days in May. The dialogue, sharp as a tack, keeps you listening, but Rob Laycock's direction provides little to watch.  Conversely, the last twenty minutes - when the plot expires - are the liveliest.

In conclusion: Rodney Bewes is terrific as The Marshal, as are co-stars Miles Richardson, Damian Quinn, Mark Carey, Callum Coates, Toni Kanal and Daniel Souter. Bonnie Wright - Ginny Weasley from the Harry Potter films - makes a creditable stage debut with the slightly spooky look and feel of a young, female, Oliver Ford Davies.

References
Southwark Playhouse, Tickets

Southwark Playhouse, 77-85 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BD.  Run ends 20 July