Coming Clean, Turbine Theatre Review
Alexander Hulme and Theo Walker in Coming Clean. Photo by Mark SeniorWritten by Cathie
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
General warnings: Swearing, smoking on stage, reference to homophobic violence
In a fantastically kitsch set straight from the 80s, a quartet of frustrated queer characters reside as they navigate the dynamics of their romantic relationships.
Firstly is Tony (Yannick Budd) a repressive and frustrated writer suffering from “irrepressible wit”. He is struggling to find inspiration and is tired of being an “isolated housewife” in his relationship with Yankee English professor Greg (Alexander Hulme). Greg seems trapped with writer’s block and struggles to connect with his students. Although their celebrating their 5th anniversary, their connection is anything but strong. They are in an “open relationship” and “haven’t been faithful since the moment they met”. Any suggestions of this as a positive seem as fragile as glass and it becomes abundantly clear that the rules for this are irreparably broken when Greg ends up having a four-month affair behind Tony’s back. The catalyst for change is wide-eyed innocent Robert (Theo Walker) who is desperately trying to break into acting but is trying to pay the bills in the meantime. He considers making love while listening to Mozart the most romantic possible experience and is awkwardly endearing as an unintentional homewrecker.
This odd trio are contrasted with single William/Juergen (Sam Goodchild) who loves to trawl the clubs each night. Danger is never far away, however, and during the play chooses unwisely and ends up physically attacked and burgled when bringing the wrong type home. Goodchild is also fantastic as a very butch German one night stand. All characters reflect a range of attitudes towards romance and sex, there’s this beautiful fusion of clashing or connecting depending on their levels of communication.
The dialogue is very witty and brings out many laughs in this all male audience. This show, originally written in 1982, is very good at encapsulating the vibe of the 80s without descending too far into its darker tones and cleverly showcases the bickering and uncertainty that many relationships can easily fall into. The nostalgia of 90p pints and £10 for a cleaner is both saddening and refreshing to remember.
David Shields’ set and costume design excels in bringing the 80s and its intricacies to life. The props are brilliant and so nostalgic in their use. Writer Kevin Elyot has worked hard with Director Andrew Beckett to create this show which explores the depths and pitfalls even the strongest romantic relationship can fall into. This show also really focuses on the themes of communication, care and honesty with your partner. At times they’ve focused too much on the details of the plot and so the pacing suffers. There are a lot of strengths to this production including its excellent set, use of witty remarks and a fabulous cast. With some fine tuning, I can see it growing into a dynamic show.
At Turbine Theatre until 20 April 2024.
★★★.5
