The Way to Keep Him

An eighteenth century romantic parlor comedy in an eighteenth century parlor. A lying philandering husband, a clever wife, and a trap for him to see the error in his ways. Simple, timeless, and fun all the while being pleasantly unremarkable. The original text is remarkably cliched with its dated humor, with character names such as Sir Brilliant Fashion (for the record, the performance of Sir Brilliant Fashion was one of the saving graces of the show) for example, it feels a bit too past its prime. The performances are very middle of the road and naturalistic, rather than keying into the jabs at period classism and exploitation of titles. In essence, the humor in the text can be rather over the top, and one would hope that the cast would utilise that, but the laughs, as presented, are too weak and too few.

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
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Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
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Performances

The Blurb

It's not all happy-ever-after once the wedding's over: the temptations of novelty undermine virtue. A swift, classic high comedy piece by a new company of young professionals in a beautifully appropriate environment.

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