Boys Plays are made up of two one act plays. The first – Boy’s Play – written by Jack Heifner goes straight for the jugular, tacking subjects as abuse and aggression, juxtaposed with caring and male bonding, and, finally, sexual ambiguity.
Tom played by Alexander Pritchett and Joe played by Matt Brinkler bounce off each other, and it’s to director Tim McArthur’s credit that two rather splendid performances are drawn out of these young men.
With the action progressing to highlight both the weaknesses and strengths contained within the characters they are playing, both actors show a maturity ahead of their years; the manner in the way that they deal with the physical scenes is pure testament to the way they are both honing their craft.
Play two, is Extra Virgin by Howard Walters. A wonderful observational piece with Noah played by Kane John Scott and Elliot played by Freddie Hogan, who deliver well-crafted, confident performances that examine the issue of psychosexual disorder and the tendency to over complicate our lives.
It was very clear that Peter Bull who directed Extra Virgin pushed the actors into giving performances he knew them to be capable of. Helped by clever plot development, there were classic moments of chaos taken from both comedy and tragedy.
This is an important production for this unique fringe theatre space that should garner praise from all reviewers. Grab a ticket and get on board for an emotional rollercoaster.
Above the Stag, 15 Bressenden Place SW1E 5DD.
Runs to the 16th October.
Box office: 020 8932 4747. www.abovethestag.com
Rating: 4/5
