Mixed Sex, Lion and Unicorn Theatre Review
Written by Bronagh for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Content warnings – some adult themes and strong language.
Carebears – check. Girlband soundtrack – check. Dance routines with friends in the playground – check. We have well and truly been transported back to the 90s, where Lousie Redknapp is on the cusp of leaving Eternal, The Spice Girls are zig-a-zig-ah-ing, Pamela Anderson is the number one pin up. Mixed Sex is more than just 90s memories and playground drama; it also explores homophobia and class divides, in a very promising debut from Sam Normington.
It's Christmas Day, and all that Sam (played by Sam Normington) wants is Eternal tickets. Instead, he gets a knitted jumper from his grandma which looks remarkably like something Harry Styles may wear, and a ‘limited edition’ (read, stolen) Carebear from his brother (Lanre Danmola). Mum (Lana-Peta Dean) and Dad (Calvin Dean) are also around, about to take their sons to church where Sam sets himself on fire. Yes, really. This sets the tone for the rest of the show; chaotic bordering on ludicrous and highly entertaining.
As the show goes on Sam goes on a journey of self-discovery, learning that there is nothing ‘wrong’ with him no matter how much he has a homophobic slur shouted at him or no interest in football or ‘tits’. It really is a beautiful journey to watch as Sam flourishes. I do feel like the first hour or so was undoubtedly steady, nicely ticking along. I wouldn’t say it was slow, however, it did leave me really wondering how on earth things were going to pan out when there was only five minutes left of the show time. I feel like the ending was quite rushed and there perhaps could have been more of a resolution with all parties. Did Sam go to the comprehensive school? Did he get to do his contemporary dance lessons? Who knows, maybe as this show evolves we may see into Sam’s future.
One thing that surprised me was the language and behaviours displayed by Sam’s best friend Rosie (also played by Lana-Peta Dean). She spoke a lot about her ‘great tits’ and showing boys her knickers; your typical kind of ‘ladette’ talk which I’d place in the late 90s/early 00s and not associate with a girl in year six in 1996. Not a criticism at all, just an observation and something that got me thinking. There is a lot of talk of breasts and female genitalia throughout Mixed Sex, notably by Sam’s friends Ricky and Archie, so whose to say this didn’t trickle down to the girls they went to school with, including Rosie.
The cast of Mixed Sex all put of a great performance, particularly entertaining. Despite his facial hair and clearly being an adult, Sam acted the part of young Sam so brilliantly and realistically. It really was like watching a ten year old boy be he making a fuss about his messy cupboard, or the childlike innocence when he walks in on a conversation between his parents regarding his brother’s internet history. Sam is a very sweet character who you can’t help but have a soft spot for. The remaining trio play multiple parts, including Sam’s friends, family and also a vicar. A terrific performance by all involved, adding to the enjoyment.
The Lion and Unicorn Theatre is fairly small, but the space can be put to good use. Multicoloured boxes were used and moved around to represent changes in scene along with changes in lighting, two jazzy prints doubled as wardrobes and a hide-y spot for the cast waiting to come back onto stage and lots of 90s memorabilia smattered around. The space may be small, but it is mighty.
The Lion and Unicorn Theatre is a lovely venue, nestled above a popular pub. Whilst watching Mixed Sex I noticed the temperature rising to slightly uncomfortable levels. I don’t know if this is something that could be improved by use of fans or air con, particularly as it is only going to get warmer. Despite this, it is a cosy spot which I love to visit.
As far as debuts go, this is a really promising one with so much potential. I’d love to see parts smoothed over, ideally without losing its charm and entertainment value. A solid show, which I couldn’t help but smile at throughout.
At The Lion and Unicorn Theatre until 21st March 2025.
★ ★ ★
