Reviews

Perhaps better known as a 1932 film, Grand Hotel is based on the 1929 book Menschen im Hotel (People in Hotel) by Austrian novelist Vicky Baum.

Based on the tales of the real hotel Adlon, one of the most well known in Berlin, the Ipswich Gallery Players' production centres on the eccentric characters whose lives become entwined as they enter the doors of the prestigious building.

They include a fading ballerina, an out of pocket baron, a bankrupt businessman, a starry eyed typist and a dying bookkeeper.

Historic Berlin

The show is set in a period in Berlin’s history when the stock market is booming and the city was regarded as one of the worlds most affluent. An irony which quickly becomes apparent is that, whilst living the high life, for the hotel guests money is the one thing that they so desperately need.

Baron Felix Von Gaigern and the Chaffeur

Our central character, Doctor Otternschlag (played by Roger Jackman) introduces us to the hotel. He is a bitter war veteran who offers commentary throughout the production on the trials and tribulations of our guests.

In the first half the lives of the characters unfold in a scene which sees them using mime to identify their different stories, highlighting the good use of lighting and mime that was used throughout the production. This gave the set real warmth, though at times meant the stage seemed a little busy.

All of the guests are optimistic about their future despite the signs of economic hardship nipping at their heels, though the only guest justified in his optimism is Otto Kringelein (played by Steve Taplin) who chooses to embrace what little he has to the full during his adventure.

His dying wish is to experience life through staying at the hotel. However when he experiences difficulties in checking in, Otto questions whether this is due to his Jewish heritage. This is a line which cuts through the jolly atmosphere pulling us back to the gritty messages within the production.

A true star

In Otto, for me, lay the production's star with Taplin delivering a truly strong performance. He seemed to really know the role and feel comfortable with it.

In the second half, the show really gathered pace, perhaps too much in the first few minutes. The true extent of Preysing's financial difficulties become apparent and the family loving businessman of the first half descends into a money hungry monster.

We also see the development of a beautiful love story, highlighting the talented singers that the Gallery Players are lucky enough to call their own.

Though sickly sweet in its ending, the production gives a very strong and poignant reminder of the casualties of economic hardship and the way in which the company have used the space available.

Grand Hotel runs at the New Wolsey Theatre from the 19-23 June. For tickets contact the box office on 01473 295 900 or visit their website.