A recreation, by David Benson, of scenes from Kenneth Williams life, together with episodes from his own childhood.
This one-man show begins with some standard, familiar impersonations of Kenneth Williams. He is seen sitting in front of a mirror, preening himself and making faces, while telling us how disappointed he is at what he feels is his lack of recognition as an actor. Next he is seen at a poetry reading after which he walks his mother home. Several further episodes follow, in all of which the representation of his mannerisms and voice are very accurate.
Just at the point where it looks as if the material might to be too thin for the length of show, David Benson reverts to his own character. He tells us of his tenuous connection with Kenneth Williams, his childhood in Birmingham and his relationship with his mother, which is funny, moving and ultimately quite sad.
Finally, he returns to Kenneth Williams. The last section is almost all set in an Italian restaurant and shows Williams at his funniest, bitchiest and unhappiest. After returning home, he is seen committing suicide, or perhaps just trying to alleviate his pain.
David Benson gives an excellent representation of Kenneth Williams and truly brings him to life. The show benefits enormously from taking a break from him in the middle; ninety minutes of just Kenneth Williams might be too intense. An interesting show; funny, uncomfortable and sad. Worth seeing, particularly for fans of Kenneth Williams.
