Spike, written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman has delightfully brought the comedy of Spike Milligan to Darlington Hippodrome. Many younger members of the audience, under 60, may not be aware of the life of Spike Milligan, but of course will probably know of his comedy writing for The Goon Show. Spike developed The Goon Show in the 1950s, as it quickly became one of the highlights for families to gather around the radio, enjoying his madcap comedy writing and performances from Harry Secombe and Peter Sellers, who soon found fame. Spike though, had many struggles from his time in the trenches, Hitler and his disputes with the BBC.
The show begins with Janet, Margaret Cabourn-Smith, in the BBC recording studio introducing us the unusual everyday objects used as sound effects before explaining recorded sounds are about to take over. Robert Wilfort expertly portrays Spike as the writer and comedian showing how his torment from the war and fighting with the BBC, leading him to be hospitalised. Patrick Warner as Peter Sellers and Jeremy Lloyd as Harry Secombe perfectly portray the comedy loved by so many.
This is one of those shows where the audience will laugh loudest and have the most fun, when they are a Spike Milligan and Goon Show fan, but it’s worth going to appreciate the clever script, incredible cast, great staging and learning about the history of Spike Milligan and The Goon Show.
