Based on the screenplay by T.E.B Clarke and directed by Jeremy Sams, The Lavender Hill Mob stage adaptation brought the beloved 1950s movie to life- attracting people to Richmond Theatre from the 14th-19th of November. As mentioned in the play’s booklet, the ‘24 Carat Comedy Capar’ is a part of The Ealing Comedies, surprisingly with some scenes having even been shot near the theatre in Richmond; a fond part of London’s entertainment history.  

This fast-paced, witty comedy takes the audience on a crime-filled journey, telling the story of Henry Holland, a cheeky bank clerk who is determined to invade the van he drives across postwar London every day and steal the gold bullions within it. However, this poses to be a difficult feat of work as he straps in Pendlebury, who makes Eiffel Tower paperweights out of lead, for the ride. Mischievously, Henry devises a plan and pulls in a few other peculiar yet funny individuals to make this dream a reality. As their story unfolds, tension builds as the audience anticipates a mistake by these two foolish masterminds.  

Watching the events unravel, it was evident the actors had a great dynamic with their own characters but also the other characters around them because of how their similarities and difference fused so well to maintain the comic atmosphere- speaking measures about the cast’s capabilities. While all the individual performances struck laughter in the audience, Miles Jupp (Holland) and Justin Edwards (Pendlebury) soon established themselves as partners in crime to the very end, never failing to paint their combination of treacherous and ludicrous crimes in our minds.  

Upon entering, the old-school ambiance echoed around the intricately designed red and cream Richmond theatre with jazzy tunes. The stage was covered in props: Happy New Year 1950 banners in both English and Portuguese to exemplify the setting of Rio De Janeiro hung from wall to wall, paintings of famous British leaders, and monumental British accessories such as a mini Big Ben. Lighting and sound played a key part in making the play immersive, adding to the comedic effect, and making the set that bit more extravagant. The set gave the audience the perfect idea of what was in store for them, as the theatre was lively with chatter and bustling with people. 

Overall, the hour and 50-minute play was able to capture the essence of post-war life yet make it both understandable and comic for modern audiences, adults, and children alike. Arash Moosa, who came to watch the play, said “It was very witty; I especially enjoyed the actor’s performances and the way they encapsulated their characters.”  Having been one of the many others who enjoyed watching it, I would recommend this stage adaption to those looking for a hearty performance or those who are open to being a witness to a preposterously laughable crime with a plot twist to leave you thinking about the events on your way home.  

Thank you very much Young Reporter Scheme and Richmond Theatre for this opportunity!