Northbound Boy, King’s Head Theatre Review

Written by Charlotte for Theatre and Tonic.

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.

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The latest play by writer James Hogan, Northbound Boy is a queer comedy about a boy that steals your heart, an aunt that steals your heirlooms and the value of what remains when everything else is gone. 

When Ken, a man in his 40s, picks up a 19-year old Rory at an M64 service station, he soon realises Rory is looking for a different type of ride. After a short drive to Ken’s recently inherited home, he discovers most of his late dad’s possessions have been whisked away by his Aunt Ivy, leading to a confrontation and conversations that should have happened a long time ago.

The story plays out over a relatively short 75-minute runtime, with the events taking place within just one day. It gives us just a small snapshot into the chaotic lives of these three people, but we learn a surprising amount about them in this short time as revelations and admissions are laid bare. It seamlessly blends comedy and drama in a story that’s heartfelt but filled with plenty of laughs. There are some questions about the characters’ lives that some audience members may feel are left unanswered (which might have been explored if the runtime was a little longer), but generally, the story is well-crafted and we’re given just enough backstory to care about them and wish them well as they go on with their lives.

Starring Neil Ashton (It’s A Sin), Sarah Moyle (Doctors) and Cormac Hyde-Corrin (Heartstopper), the performances are mostly solid, likely to strengthen throughout the duration of the show’s run. The performance most impressive is that of Hyde-Corrin who, considering this is his stage debut, portrays his character with a youthful energy and cheeky charm, but with moments of real emotion and clarity of a teenager who has made some bad decisions, but wants to work hard to pave his way in the world.

Northbound Boy is perfectly suited to a diverse and welcoming venue like the King’s Head. It’s a must-see if you love concise, queer stories about standing up for who you are, and letting ourselves be open to the spontaneous connections we make with the people around us.

At the King's Head Theatre until 1st September.

★ ★ ★ ★