Beautiful Thing, which was written by Jonathan Harvey in 1993 and later adapted for film in 1996 by Channel 4 Films, proves to be a timeless coming of age play which still has as much relevance as it did back when it was written. Disley Theatrical Productions brings their production of Beautiful Thing to the Storyhouse in Chester, and together with director Phil Edwards, they have created an intimate and heartfelt piece of theatre.
Set in a South London housing estate, next door neighbours Jamie (Jack Marsh) and Ste (Jake Cross) embark on an adventure of identity and coming to terms with their sexuality, whilst also trying to navigate through the hardships of physical and emotional abuse - Jamie being bullied at school and Ste being abused by his family at home. Add into the mix Jamie's over-bearing, but genuinely protective Mother Sandra (Catherine Bryant) and her latest lover neo-hippie Tony (Dan Costello), and troublesome next-door neighbour Leah (Abi Hoarty), this play explores the different relationship dynamics within a small community.
Although Harvey's book is engaging, demanding the audience's attention with witty one liners, humour and dramatic moments, it feels like the exploration of Ste and Jamie's relationship is majorly underdeveloped. We are given snippets of intimate and awkward encounters between Ste and Jamie as their relationship blossoms, but it all feels a little too rushed and it feels a little underwhelming. The focus seems to be primarily on other relationships, and whilst the direction is fine, we lose out on the tension created as a romance blossoms between two individuals who are embarking on a life-affirming adventure.
Regardless of this, the incredible cast of five do a tremendous job of bringing warmth and depth to their characters. Marsh perfectly portrays the initial steely edge to Jamie's character, as he battles in his relationship with his mother whilst becoming accepting of his sexuality, and puts on a front to not let the bullies in. Cross is endearing as Ste, and his attention to detail during emotional outbursts is captivating.
Bryant and Costello's chemistry is unmatched, and the pair bounce off each other really well to create some of the funniest moments in the play. Bryant's comedic timing is faultless with her witty one-liners and Costello's characterisation of a neo-hippie is hilarious. Hoarty is vibrant as the down but not out Leah, perfectly portraying the care-free attitude on surface level, but deeply wanting to strive for a better life.
Set design (Phil Cross) transports the audience to a dingy urban neighbourhood of flats, with three doors stagnant in the middle of the stage, rust tarnishing the walls and door numbers hanging down. Props are moved in front of the doors to change locations and whilst it's all very simplistic, it's very effective for the nature of the theatre.
Beautiful Thing, in the main, is a story about community, and Disley Theatrical Productions has again proved why community theatre is so important and how effective it can be when done right. A coming-of-age story is not possible without likeable and strong storytelling, which this talented cast do effortlessly. Beautiful Thing runs at Storyhouse Chester until 14th September. For tickets and more information, you can follow the link here.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | photography by Mark Carline
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