Ray Cooney’s It Runs in the Family is a masterclass in comedic chaos, and the current production at The Mill at Sonning delivers the farce with impeccable timing and infectious energy. Directed with a keen eye for pace and hilarity by Ron Alrdridge, this rendition of Cooney’s 1987 classic strikes all the right notes, making for an uproarious evening of theatre.
Set in a London hospital, the story revolves around Dr. David Mortimore (played with delightful exasperation by Steven Pinder), a neurologist on the cusp of career-defining glory as he prepares to deliver a prestigious lecture. His plans unravel spectacularly when Jane Tate (Natasha Gray), a former flame, arrives with shocking news: their teenage son, Leslie (a superb Francis Redfern), is waiting to meet him. What follows is a whirlwind of mistaken identities, outrageous lies, and physical comedy as Mortimore enlists his hapless colleague, Dr. Bonney (James Bradshaw), to help contain the escalating mayhem.
The cast is uniformly excellent, each actor fully embracing the absurdity of their roles. Pinder anchors the production with his razor-sharp comedic instincts and physical agility, while Bradshaw’s portrayal of Dr. Bonney—complete with drag disguises and musical interludes—elicits some of the show’s biggest laughs. Elizabeth Elvin as the stern Matron and Rachel Fielding as Mortimore’s unsuspecting wife add further layers of hilarity with their pitch-perfect performances.
The single hospital set, designed by Alex Marker, is both functional and visually appealing, providing ample space for the frenetic action without losing its intimacy. Natalie Titchener’s costumes enhance the comedy, particularly during moments of disguise and mistaken identity. Graham Weymouth’s lighting design complements the fast-paced antics, ensuring every gag lands effectively.
What sets this production apart is its unrelenting energy. Cooney himself is often hailed as “the master of farce,” and this staging embodies his signature style: rapid-fire dialogue, split-second timing, and escalating absurdity that leaves the audience breathless with laughter. The Mill at Sonning’s intimate setting amplifies the humour, drawing spectators into the chaos as if they were part of the action.
The inclusion of a two-course meal before the show adds to the charm of this unique venue. The transition to à la carte dining enhances what is already a thoroughly enjoyable experience, making it a perfect outing for theatre lovers.
While some elements of It Runs in the Family may feel dated in their assumptions or humour, this production embraces its old-fashioned charm with such gusto that it’s hard not to be swept along. The result is an evening filled with laughter—a testament to Cooney’s enduring appeal.
This riotous farce at The Mill at Sonning is not to be missed. With its stellar cast, sharp direction, and cozy atmosphere farcical fun doesn’t get much better than this!
Listings and ticket information can be found here
