The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

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A review from 5D Music & Theatre writer Maria Robertson.

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Many people know the book by Deborah Moggach or the popular movie, but this is a stage show version directed by Lucy Bailey.  The cast also features some well known names such as Paul Nicolas and Belinda Lang.

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Although its quite a sad storyline this play leaves you with such a warm happy feeling.  A son and mother are struggling to run a hotel in Bangalore, India following the father’s passing.  They decide to turn it into accommodation from elderly British people with no where better to go, its a cheaper alternative.  When the residents arrive they are rather disappointed with the hotel but soon turn their hand to making their situation better, and that of the locals in some cases!  It just goes to show there can always be a silver lining, and we never know where life will take us!

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Of course there is an element of romance thrown in Sonny the hotel owner (played by Nishad More) is secretly dating Sahani from the call centre (Shila Iqbal) as he’s too scared to tell his very dependant mother (Rekha John-Cheriyan).  Another romance blossoms between some hotel inhabitants, but let’s not give spoilers!  The characters are all very unique and as they develop in the second half you become rather fond of many of them, as we discover why they are the way they are today.

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Costumes and the set were designed by Colin Richmond.  The set is very cleverly done; and the lighting, music and costumes almost transport the audience to India.  The hotel is the main setting although a call centre is occasionally wheeled in for when Evelyn goes visiting Sahani and her colleagues.  The cast move the props with them as needed so that it changes seamlessly.

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If you want to feel good and be reminded of the hope that exists in the world, don’t miss this marvellous performance.  Although the run is ending in Aberdeen the tour does include Edinburgh, and as the play shows it can be wonderful to travel…

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Further information: https://marigoldshow.com/

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Maria Robertson is the Chief Music & Theatre Writer for the 5D Pop Culture Website and provides reviews & coverage of local Aberdeen music & theatre gigs. She’s an experienced writer for numerous sources and is a self-confessed live gig addict ever since seeing The Counting Crows at the Barrowlands in 1994.

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