ON APPROVAL Jermyn Street Theatre

Frederick Lonsdale’s cynical observation of the aristocracy is very much an actors’ piece and is a characteristic example of the 1920’s school of bad manners, relying, as it does, for so much of its comedy on candid rudeness. Maria (Sara Crowe), a rich, spoiled, bad-tempered widow, invites Richard (Daniel Hill), an impoverished decent chap, who has loved her for the last 18 years, to join her on her remote Scottish estate for a monthly trial marriage. The trial will be strictly platonic. They are joined by two friends: George (Peter Sandys Clarke), an arrogant and selfish Duke, facing bankruptcy, and Helen (Louise Calf), a rich and decent woman who adores him and wants to marry him. It doesn’t take Richard and Helen long to realize what a terrible disaster marriage would be. Lonsdale’s witty and laconic comedy is pleasantly acted and neatly directed by Anthony Biggs.