Based on the life of the highest paid comedian of his time and Brighton local, Max Miller, the strength of The Cheeky Chappie is in the sensitive acting between the two protagonists, Miller and wife Kathleen Marsh. Shifts between comedy and tragedy are so delicately handled, even the most intense drama is tempered by moments of quiet affection. Such as a beautifully observed scene in which Miller and Kathleen arrive on their honeymoon, their nervousness offset by a visual gag bouncing on the hotel bed, repeated to poignant effect later between Miller and his secretary Ann Graham.
Tonight this ensemble cast were note perfect, switching between modes, songs and scenes with deftness and grace, providing a strong impression of the theatrics and gossip backstage in the music hall. It’s enhanced by the slightly wonky live piano and the minimal, but carefully chosen period props.
Jamie Kenna playing Max Miller is an incredibly versatile performer, and the audience responded enthusiastically to his infectious energy during his comedy routines. But this is balanced by tragedy behind the scenes. The intrigue, hinted at the beginning of the play, concerning Miller’s mysterious mistress. Repeated jokes become significance once their origins are revealed. Laura Martin-Simpson’s performance as Kathleen Marsh is tight and controlled and heart-breaking in contrast to Sarah Moyle’s frank and direct drollness as Ann Graham, both perfect counterpoints to the strange, yet brilliant Miller.
Though the writing relies a little on stereotypes of the tragic clown, and some of the plotting is a touch slight, Kenna’s ability to respond intuitively to the audience, and the careful character shading, combined with a real sense of the music hall, lifts this show above the ordinary.
