Review: Two Gents

After interviewing three of BackBreak Theatre’s co-founders, I was left not confused but intrigued, as my ready-made questions for the director were thrown out after being told that there wasn’t simply one, but nine.

So, with an original method of using a Biffa bin and four boxes as the only scenery, this lively production took off with a bang of colourful costumes and a wonderful assortment of ska and cheesy ‘80s hits.  The costumes were authentically retro and the overall impression was quirky and amusing.

The location – the never-before used Canal Mills – worked well, as the acoustics projected the actors’ voices to every ear. The small stage at the back provided aesthetically pleasing staging. However, maybe a heater or two would have benefited the frozen audience!

Favourite bits:

• The creation of a pool table: two characters kneeling, holding a piece of green cloth stretched out between them and subtly judging the character’s shots with a shake of the head or a small nod of approval.
• The hilarious ‘dog’ sequences with George Howard and Sam Newton: comic dialogue provided the base while the relationship between the two shone through with the use of carefully rehearsed physical theatre.
• The clever use of slow motion sections in scene changes and certain prominent moments within the play, such as Proteus’ (Hugh Coles) first glance at Silvia (Holly Heasman-Durham)

Special mentions must go to Hugh Coles as Proteus – charismatic and compelling, Coles lead the production in a mixed state of love, uncertainty and self-loathing.

Joseph Kerridge as Valentine – his heart-breaking and tortured speeches in the second act wrong-footed the audience members who believed that the play was simply a comedy.

Iggy Jeffery as Thurio – a pathetic rendition of the third slimy contender for Silvia’s heart had the audience in stitches.

Alanna Flynn as many roles, including Lucetta, the Duke, the sea and (at one very random moment) the Statue of Liberty.

However, the entire cast showcased their talents in a superb production, directed by themselves. The time went quickly and all too soon, the two hour play was over. A massive well-done to you all from a very satisfied (but rather chilly) audience member!