People

Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

A young man wanders across the stage wearing only a jockstrap, accompanied by the sound of a woman in the throes of passion.

The cheeky tableau may seem an unlikely way for veteran playwright Alan Bennett to open his latest play.

But it sets the tone for a comedy which remains provocative throughout, liberally sprinkled with expletives and adult references in later scenes - though always naughty, never nasty.

The play's subject matter is also controversial, sparking outrage from the National Trust when it debuted at the National Theatre in November last year.

It stars Sian Phillips as Dorothy Stacpoole, an impoverished aristocrat living in a decaying stately home.

She has to decide what to do with her property - should she hand it over to the National Trust, or find a more creative way of making it pay?

Bennett claims that he never intended the play as a critique of the National Trust, but there are definite barbed comments throughout, including a reference to its volunteers as: "Worthy women and occasional men, sitting sentinel in every room, and for what? A cup of tea and a flapjack."

Indeed, despite its often farcical tone, People raises several thought-provoking issues, including why we enjoy wandering around old monuments. As well-meaning National Trust representative Ralph Lumsden (Michael Thomas) says: "There is nowhere now that’s not visitable, as the Holocaust has taught us’."

But despite its intelligent subtext, People is first and foremost a laugh-out-loud evening of farcical fun, performed by a top-rate cast.

The statuesque Phillips is the star of the show, displaying excellent comic timing, particularly when interacting with her 'companion' Iris (Brigit Forsyth). The pair's quirky renditions of 1960s hits such as Downtown and Walking Back to Happiness at random intervals are a particular highlight.

And a hilarious supporting performance is given by Selina Cadell as Dorothy's overbearing sister June, who wants her to sell the house to the National Trust.

The show was a sell-out when it opened in London, prompting the national tour. And judging from the rapturous applause with which it was received on the opening night in Canterbury, it will prove just as popular on the road - and deservedly so.

People is at the Marlowe Theatre until Saturday, October 26. Tickets from £15. Call 01227 787787.