Review: Me and My Girl, Bristol Hippodrome - 'EastEnders meets Downton Abbey'

I had never heard of Me and My Girl, but this musical comedy, which dates back to 1937, is clearly popular with the older audience that packed the auditorium.

This version, produced by BLOC Productions, is a revision by Stephen Fry and Mike Ockrent from the 1980s, so I knew I was in for a laugh.

At first, I wasn’t sure if the musical would be for me, with it being about a 1930s aristocratic family and feeling a bit pompous.

But as soon as the main character, the out-of-place cockney Bill Snibson, arrives, the show picks up and sets into motion.

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The production tells the hilarious rags-to-riches story of Bill, a Lambeth market trader who is revealed to be the new Earl of Hereford, and his comical attempts to settle into aristocratic life.

The contrast between Bill and his girlfriend Sally interacting with the posh family is portrayed humorously, enhanced by catchy tunes and witty one-liners.

The production also features one of the largest ensembles I’ve ever seen at the Hippodrome - almost 50 performers altogether - and I wondered how they all fit on stage.

The large cast contributes to some magnificent group numbers and keeps the energy buzzing throughout the show.

It does feel more like an old-fashioned musical in terms of the songs and dialogue, which likely reflects the older audience.

While the story may not be the most original - a working-class man thrust into upper-class life - the way it’s told provides plenty of laughs.

I would sum it up as imagining EastEnders meets Downton Abbey, with the addition of great comedy and incredible musical numbers.

Me and My Girl runs at the Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday, October 5. For tickets, click here.