Peter Quilter has a knack for creating characters who stay with you long after the curtain falls, and his latest play, Allegra, this week showing at Richmond, is no exception. The title character’s name means joyful, and it couldn’t be more fitting for a woman who seems to have music running through her veins.

At the centre of this warm-hearted comedy is Dame Maureen Lipman, who proves once again why she remains one of the country’s most loved performers. From the moment she steps on stage, she commands attention. Her Allegra is funny, unpredictable and full of life, bursting into song at home, in the street and even in the local shops and cafés, much to the confusion of those around her.

The clever twist is that some of these musical moments are real while others exist only in Allegra’s imagination. It allows the production to move effortlessly between reality and fantasy, creating plenty of laughs along the way while also revealing deeper truths about the character.

Lipman is simply wonderful. Her comic timing is as sharp as ever, but what makes the performance so special is the vulnerability she brings to the role. Allegra’s boundless enthusiasm is infectious, yet there are moments when cracks begin to appear, hinting at something more fragile beneath the surface. Lipman handles these shifts beautifully, never overplaying them and making the character feel completely authentic.

The supporting cast provide excellent backup. Elizabeth Bower is hugely likeable as Anna, Allegra’s carer, balancing practical efficiency with genuine affection. John Middleton brings warmth and sincerity as Allegra’s brother Ronen, sharing some particularly touching scenes with Lipman. Bailey Patrick adds plenty of laughs as a frustrated policeman whose attempts to keep control are repeatedly undone by Allegra’s exuberance.

Director and choreographer Stephen Mear keeps everything moving at just the right pace. The musical sequences feel natural rather than forced, blending seamlessly into the story and helping to create a production that feels light on its feet throughout.

What makes Allegra work so well is its balance of humour and heart. It’s funny, uplifting and packed with charm, but it also has genuine emotional depth. By the end, it’s impossible not to feel affection for Allegra and the people around her.

This is the kind of show that sends audiences home smiling.

If you see one show this year, make it this one.

Five Stars.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Photo credit Marc Brenner.

Showing at Richmond Theatre.

For more details and tickets see link below

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/allegra/richmond-theatre/calendar

Cast

Allegra: Dame Maureen Lipman DBE

Ronen (Allegra’s brother): John Middleton

Anna (Carer): Elizabeth Bower

Officer Rogers: Bailey Patrick

Creatives

Writer/Playwright: Peter Quilter

Director & Choreographer: Stephen Mear

Set & Costume Designer: Justin Williams

Lighting Designer: Samuel Biondolillo

Sound Designer: Russell Ditchfield

Casting Director: Rob Kelly

Producers: Thomas Hopkins

Producers: Thomas Hopkins Productions and SAMS Entertainment.