The Crown Jewels review – Al Murray King Charles is hysterical in plodding play

Following the first Coronation in 70 years, it certainly makes sense for the West End to follow the epic Royal event with a play about The Crown Jewels.

The new heist comedy is based on the true story of Colonel Blood’s attempt to steal the nation’s precious paraphernalia during the reign of King Charles II.

What follows in this theatrical production’s attempt to recreate history with a comic twist ends up being more average Carry On than witty Blackadder.

The silly retelling is mildly amusing with gentle bawdy humour, but the stretched-out plot struggled to keep our attention.

Yet despite a number of jokes falling flat, there was the occasional show-stealing scene of genius that had the audience howling with laughter.

During the first act, Al Murray addresses the theatre as merry monarch King Charles II in what ended up being a hilarious piece of somewhat improved stand-up.

The comedian would pick on members of the audience, pointing at a bald bloke and asking why he couldn’t afford a wig, before being shocked to find out that a woman in the box was a doctor.

We’d have been much happier if this had been most of the show, but that’s not to say that there weren’t some other comic highlights.

When Aidan McArdle’s Colonel Blood attempted his escape of the Tower of London with the stolen Crown Jewels, aided by his bumbling sidekicks played by Neil Morrissey and Joe Thomas, a huge map of the castle was brought on stage with puppets representing the characters running around that had everyone cackling.

Additionally, Carrie Hope Fletcher’s excellent vocals were always a joyous delight when she occasionally broke into song. Overall, there’s just about enough here for an amusing evening out but it might be a bit much for those only mildly interested in the true story.

The Crown Jewels is performed at London’s Garrick Theatre until September 16 before going on tour and tickets and be purchased here.