27th March 2024, Royal & Derngate Theatre
⭐⭐⭐⭐
When H.G. Wells penned "The Time Machine" in 1895, he probably never imagined his serious science fiction novella would one day be the basis for a rollicking stage comedy. Yet here we are, over a century later, and "The Time Machine: A Comedy" has been making audiences chuckle with its whimsical take on time travel and Victorian futurism.
The play, adapted by Steven Canny and John Nicholson, takes creative liberties with Wells' original work, transforming it into a comedic romp that's as much about the laughs as it is about the perils of traversing the fourth dimension. The production has been described as having a "sharp cast" but criticized for relying on a "wearisome play-within-a-play concept" that lacks momentum. Despite this, the charm of the original story still manages to shine through the modern-day humor and satirical jabs.
The premise of the play revolves around a group of actors who set out to present their version of "The Time Machine." As expected, things go hilariously awry. The script is peppered with anachronistic references, including songs by Cher and jokes about contemporary figures, which all serve to create a delightful contrast with the 19th-century setting of Wells' tale.
Audience participation and a series of meta-theatrical gags contribute to the show's unique flavor. It was awkward to start with nobody wanted to hand over their phones, but was funny with them begging for a phone and then interacting with the person and their phone.The actors break the fourth wall, inviting the audience into their world of controlled chaos. It's a bold move that pays off, providing a fresh and interactive theater experience.
The production has toured various venues, receiving a mix of reviews. Some have praised it for its "exquisitely entertaining" nature and "thoroughly, ridiculously amusing" content. Others have pointed out the uneven pacing and moments where the comedy seems to drag. Nonetheless, the consensus is that the play offers an evening of light-hearted entertainment that sends you home with a smile.
"The Time Machine: A Comedy" may not delve deeply into the philosophical implications of time travel as Wells did, but it doesn't aim to. Instead, it embraces the absurdity of the concept and runs with it, all the while paying homage to the sci-fi classic. It's a reminder that sometimes, looking back at the past through a humorous lens can be just as enlightening as a serious analysis.
For those who enjoy a good laugh and don't mind a bit of silliness with their science fiction, "The Time Machine: A Comedy" is a must-see. It's a testament to the timeless nature of Wells' story and the endless possibilities it presents—not just for drama and speculation, but for comedy and joy as well. So, if you're in the mood for a comedic journey through time, be sure to catch this play on its next stop. Who knows? It might just be the funniest time travel you'll ever experience.