Glen Chandler’s adaptation of the John Rae book is both sensitive and subtle.
With a running time of 110 minutes, the pacing of the play is not rushed and the important message of the original book is not lost. Each of the actors deliver stellar performances, especially Charlie Cussons as John Curlew and Andrew St Pierre as Mark Stein, whose ‘love affair’ is at the core of the story.
Here is a well-observed study of class, bigotry and prejudice presented both coherently and intelligently. Issues of self preservation, sexual awakening and the crossover from boy to man – and even the effects of increased testosterone production! – give the play a strong heart with a solid beat.
There are also wonderful moments of pure comedy, Curlew’s line, “I can’t get nits I’m from South Kensington” give the play it’s light and shade. Another stand out performance is that of Josh Hall as Felix Hearse, and as the rather supercilious head master with a penchant for sadism, played with style and flair. This is a character with an ardent belief that the stiff upper lip must be maintained at all costs. A joy to watch.
Good support from Jim Cameron, Marco Petrucco, Tom Sanderson and Jack Elliot Thomson add further flesh and bones to the play that exposes the horrors and exasperation caused by the futility of war. The build-up to the climatic final scene is extremely provocative with the majesty of Elliot Griggs lighting effect adding to the experience.
This is wonderful ensemble acting with evident ideal casting with a really clever use of the inherent mannerisms the actors possess. The Custard Boys is well worth it.
• The Custard Boys, Tabard Theatre, 2 Bath Road, W4 1LW.
• Runs to Saturday 12th May.
• Box Office: www.tabardtheatre.co.uk and 020 8995 6035
