It’s really satisfying when a genuinely funny script meets intelligent actors and direction. Such is the mix of “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune”. The play is such a gentle piece that it could have been overworked in the quest for cheap laughs or left to plod in a mire of emotion. Mixed Salad’s production rings very true thanks to the naturalness of the performances.

Frankie is a waitress and Johnny a cook at a New York diner. They do dinner and a movie on a first date, before ending up in Frankie’s bed; and the play follows the journey the two take across the night until dawn.

Terrence McNally’s script is full of fabulous and sometimes unexpected one-liners one minute, and vulnerable frailty the next.

Sally Putnam’s direction never pushes but guides and she helps her actors extract the maximum effect from what seems the minimum of effort.

Adam Touminen is Johnny, fast-talking and forward, who is convinced that the relationship’s potential will never be fulfilled unless the two commit that night. His character is a risky one as it could be easily overplayed. Touminen walks dangerously close to the brink at times, but thankfully never goes over the edge. It’s a deeply felt and deft performance.

Theresa Sugars is the man-shy Frankie, hurt so badly in previous relationships that she is determined not to let Johnny get too close. This lady is a revelation. Timing, characterisation and commitment are impressive. I would hope she’s never out of work.

The two play off each other like a string sonata and it’s a pleasure to watch. The advertised “brief nudity” is so brief as not to be an issue.

Production values are excellent. The set is magnificently busy but beautifully efficient and the sound and lighting are spot on.

Judging by the audience reaction, “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune” will repeat the success of Mixed Salad’s recent show, ‘The History Boys’, so if you want a great night of theatre, book now

Share