Review of Inside No. 9: Stage/Fright at New Theatre Oxford
Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith brought their BAFTA-winning world to the stage last night, opening Inside No. 9: Stage/Fright in Oxford to a standing ovation. As expected, the show is mischievous, macabre, and extremely funny, featuring jumpy shocks that had the audience shrieking with laughter.
A Theatrical Curtain-Raiser
The opening piece serves as a playful love letter—and gentle warning—to theatre etiquette, nudging even seasoned theatregoers to reconsider rustling sweet wrappers or checking their phones during the performance. It perfectly sets the tone: sharp, witty, and delightfully edgy.
Black Comedy and Horror Elements
Stage/Fright is built as a black comedy-horror play, blending new material with sly references to beloved TV episodes. Fans will also spot nods to “Bernie Clifton’s Dressing Room,” though no spoilers here.
Building Suspense Backstage
The second story delves deeper into dread, using backstage video to guide the audience through an empty, eerie theatre. Each creak and corridor heightens the tension effectively.
Surprise Guest Appearance
One of the unique aspects of Stage/Fright is a surprise guest each night. For Oxford’s opening, Will Young joined in wearing pyjamas and a dressing gown. He played along with the mischief of Pemberton and Shearsmith, trying to maintain a straight face but ultimately failing. He returned the favor with a cheeky anecdote that nearly made the pair break character.
“The show is mischievous, macabre, and very, very funny, peppered with jumpy little shocks that had the audience shrieking between laughs.”
“A cheeky love letter (and a gentle threat!) to theatre etiquette that’ll make even the most seasoned theatregoer think twice about rustling a sweet wrapper or checking a phone mid-show.”
“Oxford’s opening performance featured Will Young, who gamely joined the fun in pyjamas and dressing gown, trying (and failing) to keep a straight face.”
Author’s summary: Inside No. 9: Stage/Fright blends sharp comedy and chilling moments with clever audience interaction, delivering a memorable, mischievous theatrical experience.
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