Based on the novel ‘These Foolish Things’ which inspired the film with a star-studded cast, the Edinburgh Festival Theatre hosts ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’. A production written by Deborah Moggach and directed by Lucy Bailey. It’s a drama-comedy that follows a group of elderly brits who – for different reasons – have all travelled to the Marigold Hotel in India which is struggling to remain standing despite the very best efforts of its latest owner, Sonny. Although these retirees are on somewhat independent journeys, they find themselves becoming intertwined and consequently, new relationships bloom and flourish. This new production is running from 30th May to 3rd June before touring other UK venues.
Firstly, the story that’s told by Deborah Moggach is sheer brilliance. Her dialogue is authentic, clever and has perfect pacing. Her characters have distinct personalities that endear the audience to follow them on their paths. The arc of Evelyn is a particularly beautiful one, as it shows a timid and reserved widow blossoming into a self-assured woman unafraid of any challenge life may throw at her. Grief and love are explored throughout the play in a variety of circumstances, from the grief of a mother who feels she’s losing the loyalty of her son, to a couple who’ve been married for decades only to have gradually fallen out of love with each other. Such stories can be heavy on drama and steeped in sorrow, yet Moggach tells them in a way that brings light and humour to the experience. She reminds us that the ending of one relationship can leave space for a better one, and that our relationships with ourselves is an ageless, ever-developing thing. There is a real sense of hope and possibility which is inspiring. Every character in this piece ultimately transforms for the better and has their fair share of stage time. By the end, every one of them has won your heart. Some even manage to break it a bit.
Such a strong story is only complemented by its ensemble of actors. Tessa Peake-Jones who plays Evelyn is simply excellent. She gives Evelyn a sweetness and charm that makes her impossible not to root for. The friendship she has with Madge (portrayed by Belinda Lang) and Muriel (portrayed by Marlene Sidaway) is also joyous to watch. The trio bounce off one another wonderfully and have some hilarious one-liners. Another notable friendship is that of Dorothy and Jimmy (portrayed by Paola Dionisotti and Harmage Singh Kalirai). They have a beautiful, natural chemistry together. Everyone involved in this play has great presence and devotion to the story. Big group scenes that could have been convoluted instead are easy to follow and deeply engaging. Each actor is an expert at their craft and delightful to watch. They draw you in so much that when the lights inevitably darken and the show concludes, you find yourself missing their company at once.
The overall design of the show is also glorious. The use of warm lighting and gentle nature sounds allows the audience to truly immerse themselves in this world. (They too are guests at the Marigold hotel.) The design of which is intricate and interesting. It’s clear this hotel is a building with a past. It’s versatile and open and suggests largeness. With hardly any scene changes, the set appears as if it could extend far beyond the stage, to a range of hallways and rooms all probably in need of repair. Something that does change drastically however, are the costumes. The brits go from wearing dull, sensible garments to light and colourful ones that both reflect their wearer’s growth in confidence and the tone of excitement that occurs from the evolving relationships and new adventures. It all comes together to depict a collective rebirth. Colin Richmond has done exquisite work as this show’s designer.
‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ is a wonderfully joyous production packed with British wit and charm. It provides refreshing takes on life as an elderly person and reminds us that it’s never too late to discover ourselves or begin anew. It is the ultimate piece of feel-good theatre.
Tickets: https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/all-shows/the-best-exotic-marigoldhotel/
Theatre Scotland 
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