Review: Teechers
John Godber’s Teechers was first written in the late 1980s, yet nearly forty years on it remains just as sharp, funny, and relevant.
Though at heart a comedy, the play carries a powerful message about the inequalities in the British school system. This autumn, Ipswich-based Eastern Angles have brought Teechers back to the stage with a new production, currently showing at The New Wolsey before heading out on tour across the region.
The story follows three students at a struggling comprehensive school who, inspired by their new drama teacher, Mr Nixon, decide to stage their own end-of-term play, Whitewall. A play within a play, Teechers cleverly shows Salty, Hobby, and Gail transform from reluctant rebels into young voices tackling the failings of education through drama. Meanwhile, Mr Nixon is locked in his own battles—against cynical staff, difficult pupils, and even a less-than-helpful caretaker.
The cast of three deliver an impressive performance: Isaac Franklin as Salty, Chileya Mwampulo as Gail, and Eloise Richardson as Hobby. Not only do they bring the central students vividly to life, but they also switch effortlessly into the many other characters that populate the story.
This is no Grange Hill, but it is a hugely entertaining trip back to school—complete with recognisable teachers, classmates, and situations that will spark memories for anyone who’s been through the system. One thing’s for certain: you’ll leave smiling.
• Teechers is at the New Wolsey in Ipswich until 2nd October, 2025 and then touring – full details at www.easternangles.co.uk
Review: Mark Keable, Ipswich24 Magazine
Picture: Will Green Photography