Robert Daws returns to the Edinburgh Fringe with a masterful portrayal of one of Britain’s most beloved comic writers in Wodehouse in Wonderland, a witty and gently poignant one-man play by the late William Humble. Staged at Assembly George Square Studios, this production offers a charming and layered glimpse into the life of P.G. Wodehouse, affectionately known as Plum.
Set in Wodehouse’s New York State home during the 1950s, the play unfolds through a series of letters to his daughter and conversations with an enthusiastic young American biographer. Daws, who has previously played Wodehouse on stage and radio, is pitch-perfect in the role, capturing both the effervescent humour and the quiet melancholy of a man whose legacy is tinged with controversy.
Fans of Jeeves and Wooster will be delighted by the many references to Wodehouse’s most famous creations, as well as anecdotes from his time writing lyrics for Broadway musicals. The production includes musical interludes featuring songs by Jerome Kern, George Gershwin and Cole Porter, with lyrics penned by Wodehouse himself. These moments add a lightness to the piece, complementing the gentle comedy that runs throughout.
Yet, Wodehouse in Wonderland does not shy away from the more difficult chapters of Wodehouse’s life, including the infamous Berlin broadcasts during World War II. These are handled with sensitivity, offering a nuanced portrait of a man whose love for his family and devotion to his craft were unwavering, even in the face of public scrutiny.
Daws’ performance is a tour de force: warm, funny and deeply human. His delivery of Wodehouse’s trademark wit elicits genuine laugh-out-loud moments, while his quieter reflections lend the play emotional depth. The interplay between Plum and his unseen biographer adds a dynamic rhythm to the monologue, keeping the audience engaged throughout the 70-minute runtime.
Directed by Robin Herford, the production is elegantly staged, allowing Daws’ performance to shine without distraction. It’s a fitting tribute to both Wodehouse and Humble, whose affection for his subject is evident in every line.
As the Fringe commemorates the 50th anniversary of Wodehouse’s passing, this production feels both timely and tender. It’s a celebration not only of Plum’s enduring wit but also of William Humble’s heartfelt writing, brought to life with elegance and affection by Robert Daws. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee or a newcomer to Wodehouse’s world, this is a theatrical treat that leaves you smiling and quietly moved.
