Tickets were gifted in return for an honest opinion.
I'm Sorry, Prime Minister opened in London's West End at the Apollo Theatre on 12 February 2026 and is now touring, with stops including Milton Keynes, York and Brighton. Based on the beloved satirical television series from the early 1980s, the production is likely to appeal to audiences seeking a nostalgic return to the world of Jim Hacker and Sir Humphrey.
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| Clive Francis and Simon Rouse. Photo by Danny Kaan |
The set immediately catches the eye, with expansive bookshelves, comfortable furnishings and even a fully functioning stairlift creating a convincing and lived-in environment. Visually, it establishes the tone well and provides a fitting home for these familiar characters.
Unfortunately, the production itself struggles to maintain momentum. The storyline feels rather slight, and despite the best efforts of the cast, the pacing is sluggish. Francis brings authority and wit to Sir Humphrey, while Rouse delivers an engaging Jim Hacker, both working hard to inject energy into a script that doesn't always give them enough to work with.
Alongside the familiar characters, audiences are introduced to Sir Humphrey's newly appointed care worker, Sophie, played by Donnough. Clearly intended as a bridge between the original series and the present day, the character is a welcome idea in principle. However, the integration feels somewhat forced, and the contemporary elements never quite blend naturally with the classic political satire.
The lighting, designed by Henderson, is thoughtfully executed, with practical window lighting, ceiling fixtures, illuminated kitchen cabinets and floor lamps all contributing to the realism of the setting. While technically accomplished, the design remains largely static and misses opportunities to reflect the passage of time or enhance the changing mood of the piece. One particularly effective touch, however, is the beautifully animated rain and snowfall beyond the windows, which adds a quietly captivating layer to the production.
Although I'm Sorry, Prime Minister didn't quite hit the mark for me, it was clear that many audience members thoroughly enjoyed the evening. There was consistent laughter throughout, warm applause after key moments, and I even witnessed a standing ovation at the curtain call. Fans of the original television series are likely to find plenty to appreciate, even if the stage adaptation doesn't fully recapture the sharpness and pace that made its source material so enduring.
⭐⭐
I'm Sorry, Prime Minister runs at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 4th July. For tickets visit https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/im-sorry-prime-minister/milton-keynes-theatre/
The production tours until 1st August 2026. For venues and dates visit https://imsorryprimeminister.com/
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| Clive Francis and Simon Rouse. Photo by Danny Kaan |
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