The Stage

The Dumb Waiter

Published Friday 9 February 2007 at 15:55 by David Simmons

Pinter’s dialogue is as sharp and fresh as it ever was in this cracking revival from director Harry Burton. His ear for the rhythm and tone of speech between the two hitmen, Gus and Ben, is spot on and this production brings Pinter’s relevance into sharp relief - the masterful interplay of colloquialism, menace, absurdity and wit, anticipating the likes of Pete and Dud and more recently the celebrated screenplays of Tarantino.

Jason Isaacs, as Ben, plays the straight man note perfect. His performance gives Evans room to prove his acting credentials. He exudes quiet authority as the senior partner of the double act, delivering a balance of gruff irritation and a sense of professionalism in his occupation.

Evans is certainly making a name for himself as a stage actor and this performance will go further towards cementing his reputation. Beginning in silence, with Evans rising from bed and proceeding to put on, take off, then put on his shoes again, the production threatens to reveal itself as nothing more than a showcase for the comedian’s clowning abilities. Thankfully, it opens out as an example of intuitive directing, which places accent on the comedy and provides Evans with the stage to deliver a terrific turn, closer to the nuances of character Chaplin was capable of portraying than the antics of Norman Wisdom. What is also impressive is the freshness Evans lends to certain lines, through both his mannerisms and intonations. Sonia Friedman must be smiling to herself for suggesting him for the part.

Peter McKintosh’s dirty, tiled basement design is a further element that works so well, while Matt McKenzie’s sound effects punctuate the claustrophobic atmosphere to great effect. This is a real grubby treat for Trafalgar Studios.