SPIKE
A fast-paced, capering production
The Guardian
Why see SPIKE?
NEW FROM IAN HISLOP AND NICK NEWMAN
"I'm not acting crazy. I'm the genuine article."
Fresh from its premiere at the prestigious Watermill Theatre, this brand new play from Ian Hislop and Nick Newman comes to a stage near you this year. Exploring the story of one of our most unique comedians, SPIKE finds the titular Mr Milligan at the very height of Goon mania when the irreverent comedy show rules the airwaves. While Harry Seacombe and Peter Sellers are more interested in their newfound fame, Spike is busy trying to re-create the very foundations of comedy. But will this obsession pay off? Or will it spell doom for the Goons?
With Olivier winner John Dagleish as Spike and the voice of Stephen Fry as the BBC announcer, this very funny new play offers an insight into the comedy pioneer, from his great heights to his infamous nadirs. Note this one down in your diaries!
Key Information
Audience
10+ Contains strong language, references to suicide, Loud bangs, strobe lighting, and the use of prop cigarettes and guns on stage.
Run Time
Two hours and 10 minutes with a 20 minute intermission
Dates
Finished 5 Nov 2022
Cast
Robert Wilfort as Spike Milligan
Patrick Warner as Peter Sellers
Jeremy Lloyd as Harry Secombe
Margaret Cabourn-Smith as Janet
James Mack as Denis Main-Wilson/Peter Eton
Ellie Morris as June
Robert Mountford as BBC Executive
Peter Dukes as BBC Announcer
Tesni Kujore as Myra
Sam Ducane as Doctor
Creative
Directed by Peter Hart
Design by Katie Lias
Lighting design by Rory Beaton
Composed by Tayo Akinbode
Sound design by Tom Marshall
Anjali Mehra as movement director
Ruth Sullivan as the Foley sound consultant
Reviews
Customer reviews
2 reviews, average rating: (4.5 Stars)
Debbie
Giggled throughout
Had a wonderful night laughing and sniggering at the silliness that was the goon show yet the sadness of Spikes related depression we now call PTSD clearly a major factor throughout his career.
Great show and questions after the show. ... Read more
Stuart Maister
Funny, poignant, brilliantly produced
It’s not just those who remember Spike Milligan who should come to this great show. It’s just a fun, powerful and actually quite poignant evening as you see this comedy genius in full flow but troubled by both his past and his present mental health. Fantastic acting, brings a life Milligan and Harry Secombe and Peter Sellers. Fast, furious and funny.
I was so sad to see the theatre less than half full as this production deserves a packed house and a standing ovation. ... Read more
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