As soon as Alexis Gregory steps on to the stage to start the first of three monologues which form his latest theatre piece Riot Act, one thing is clear; he’s genuine.
The word ‘genuine’ is a bit boring, the sort of word people use to describe themselves on dating apps, but there’s no word more fitting for Alexis’s performances depicting accounts of pivotal points in gay history from three different perspectives.
It’s apparent from the start that Alexis passionately and sensorily believes and empathises with every word he’s recounting, and it’s that that makes Riot Act so engaging.
We begin with Michael-Anthony Nozzi, one of few remaining survivors of the Stonewall riots. It’s a vivid and brutal account, so detailed that you can’t help but be transported. Alexis does Michael justice, peppering the rendition with carefully subtle nuances and quirks, as well as comedy. Not to mention a fairly flawless American accent. “Missi! Come and say hello to the handsome playwright from London!”
Next, it’s the matter-of-fact and at times acerbic reminiscence on gay liberation in the 70s in London, courtesy of Lavinia Co-Op. It addresses our issues with shame and mental health in such a gorgeously flippant but also savvy way, that at the end you’re left reeling.
Finally, an homage to Act Up London, with an impassioned telling from Paul Burston, of the activist group’s outrageous, dangerous and joyful activities.
A theatre piece of this nature is a true test of an actor’s mettle – three eccentric characters, in the space on an hour, talking heatedly about sensitive issues. Alexis pulls it off with a rare mixture of confidence and respect; brash as Michael, aloof as Lavinia, thoughtful as Paul. It’s an important lesson in the art of theatre – less is more. It’s the tiny, subtle things, the little idiosyncrasies, that are the most important.
It’s also an important lesson in gay history. But doesn’t FEEL like a lesson, which is great. It has everything good art should have; it’s emotional, it’s honest, and it’s unignorably passionate.
Riot Act is at The Kings Head Theatre until 5th August. Book tickets here.
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