Nabokov called The Government Inspector the greatest play in the Russian language. When Gogol’s classic political satire was first performed in Russia in 1836 the Tsar reportedly joked: "Hmm, what a play! Gets at everyone and most of all at me!". So controversial was the play that Gogol was forced to leave the country.

The play is set In a small, overlooked town at the back of nowhere. Corruption rules and the Mayor (Ed Lo Bianco) and his cronies have got it made. Then they are tipped-off that they're going to be subject to an undercover government inspection - and panic. Mistaking a penniless nobody, Khlestakov (Calum Wood) for the inspector they swiftly fall victims to their own stupidity and greed.

This adaptation uses music and physical theatre to create an exciting visual performance. The Director Steph Kirton said that: "The acting often draws upon methods from the Italian Commedia dell'Arte, which I hope will give a grotesque sense of fun to the characters, whilst heightening the satire and revealing the message." Certainly the effect was to produce a very modern and watchable interpretation.

The cast were drawn from past and current students at Berkhamsted School in Hertfordshire. Their performance was energetic and very entertaining. Their comic timing was excellent and it was very much an ensemble. It is difficult to single out any one actor but I particularly enjoyed Lizi Robinson as the haughty Maid at the Inn.  

Reviewed by Patrick Harrington - Counter Culture Magazine