YES, PRIME MINISTER

Writers: Anthony Jay and Jonathan Lynn

Director: Peter Briston

Producer: Cambridge Repertory Theatre

Gaslight Theatre, Cambridge, 3-17 May 2025

The 1980s BBC TV series Yes, Minister and sequel Yes, Prime Minister are fondly remembered for their exceptional actors and sharp-witted script that poked fun at UK politics. In 2010, original writers Anthony Jay and Jonathan Lynn reconvened and wrote the play Yes, Prime Minister featuring their original characters Prime Minister Jim Hacker, Cabinet Secretary Sir Humphrey Appleby, and Principal Private Secretary Bernard Woolley. In the last fifteen years, there have been extraordinary changes in politics, but some of the issues such as climate change, the energy crisis, spiralling debt, and immigration remain. The play addresses these challenges but also delves into a moral dilemma when a visiting official has a specific request that throws those in the Prime Minister’s trusted circle into a complete tailspin.

Nicholas Wells (Prime Minister Jim Hacker) and Dave Moore (Sir Humphrey)

As Sir Humphrey, Dave Moore gave an accomplished and clever performance. Two extraordinary monologues received spontaneous applause. Moore’s delivery was flawless. Opposite Moore was Nicholas Wells as PM Jim Hacker. From his initial entry, his energy palpable and he played the conflicted and out-of-his-depth Prime Minister splendidly.

Rounding out the trio was Jared Wooldridge as Bernard Woolley. No one can do exasperated like Wooldridge. An ever-reliable actor, his micro expressions and ability to enhance the performances of those around him was on full display. The casting of Moore, Wells and Wooldridge was impeccable.

Director Peter Briston used the small stage to his advantage, and his direction enhanced the humorous one-liners. Each act featured a scene change, and these were completed efficiently, providing the storyline, cast and audience a fleeting moment to reset. There were no issues with diction or voice projection, and a good tempo kept Yes, Prime Minister moving along at an ideal pace.

Another shoutout for Briston who designed set alongside Colin Hodkinson and Dave Hodkinson. Reminiscent of an office at Chequers, the set was the best to ever appear on the Gaslight Theatre stage. The inclusion of a large screen that had a couple of moments in the spotlight was exceptional, particularly the pipeline map that got a huge response from the audience.

Dave Moore (Sir Humphrey) and Jared Wooldridge (Bernard Woolley)

Cambridge Repertory continues to stage riveting and compelling works. The hospitality at this diminutive venue is tremendous. The Front of House volunteers are as hardworking as those behind the scenes. On this note, the crew ensured a seamless performance with lighting, video and sound effects that were refined and appropriate.

With only a sprinkling of tickets left for the entire season, Yes Prime Minister is a must-see for fans of the original tv series, anyone interested in politics, or those who crave a laugh-out-loud theatrical experience.

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Images: Cambridge Repertory/Gaslight Theatre