Voyage Round My Father

John Mortimer is well known for his excellent Rumpole of the Bailey books, which were turned into brilliant television shows starring veteran actor Leo McKern. Actually, one of Mr. Mrotimer's earliest works was an autobiographical work entitled A Voyage Round My Father, which in 1971 was adapted as a stage play. This version of the play was first performed on June 8, 2006 at the Donmar Warehouse, and starred Derek Jacobi and Dominic Rowan. Now, I must admit that I do not read many play scripts, preferring prose narratives (novels, usually) instead. However, this powerful and fascinating play conjures up all of the mental images you need to see it performed in the comfort of your own skull. I loved the way the son narrates the story, from school days through to his law career, as he looks back on himself interacting with his irascible father - it's the story of his life, his interaction with his beloved, though exasperating father - a voyage round his father!