The first half of this show might be dismissed as a straightforward impression of Tommy Cooper, but clocking in at 45 minutes, this is actually quite an accomplishment. Clive Mantle’s performance is uncanny. All the nuances are there, including the forlorn look on his face as a trick goes wrong, quickly followed by the triumphant, crazed cheer as it goes right. Mantle’s timing is impeccable, particularly in New Year’s Eve, the hats routine.
The second half starts with Tommy in his dressing room preparing for a show, in long johns and vest, taking pills, smoking and drinking to excess. But we don’t learn much about the man because he still speaks with his assistant, played by Carla Mendonca, in one-liners, and is just as funny as when on stage. Although he does say that if, as some people suggest, all he needs to do is walk on stage and people laugh, he might try it some time, do absolutely nothing, “Then they’ll know the difference”. But this sadness is only hinted at, and apart from a mild level of intoxication being apparent during the second half, that is as deep as we go.
It is a shame the ending is so clumsy and flat - set in heaven and including a wildly inappropriate song and dance number. Fortunately the scene also includes more one-liners plus the best magic trick of the night. Anyone can do an impersonation of Tommy Cooper, and many do. But to sustain it over a couple of hours takes some doing, so Mantle’s standing ovation is deserved.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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