Shellshocked, Leeds Playhouse Review

Written by Joseph for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review

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As the lights went down as this play began I had certain expectations. Mainly derived from the play title. Another war play, to show us how bad war is. I was however taken aback as what followed was nothing of the sort.

Shellshocked is war adjacent. The basic premise is that Wesley (Jack Stokes) has come to see Mr Lupine (Lee Bainbridge) about an apprenticeship he is offering. However, it is much more than that. The play discusses themes surrounding war, art, creativity, destruction, destiny and purpose. Carefully dissecting these through the intimate relationship that these characters come to inhabit. 

Jack’s portrayal of Wesley is soft, considered and gentle. We care for him. As a man who just wants to provide for his family, he is doing what he needs to. He has clearly left behind atrocities that he has buried deep within, as he does a good job of keeping them hidden. He is the perfect canvas for us to place ourselves. We feel as he feels, which is a credit to Jack’s minimalist performance.

Lee as Mr Lupine is enchanting and peculiar. Some may call him “a character”, constantly switching between different opinions and viewpoints. Does he want to be warm and welcoming, or cold and distant? He achieves something remarkable which is both. We see both sides of Lupine, the kind and caring, and his more manipulative side. Carefully considered and is paid off well in the third act. 

The sound is cinematic, helping to generate the appropriate atmosphere at the appropriate time. Staging is minimal but effective, as is the lighting. Nothing too invasive. Pitched perfectly for this kind of play.

My main takeaway was their use of silence. A lot of plays and writers have lots of dialogue and feel that the pace should be set and should rattle on. This show however showed how the opposite can be just as effective. Careful pauses at the right moments let the audience sit within the scene and marinade in it. It shows confidence in the writing that they allow this as adding things can be a crutch to hold onto. Letting us sit in silence is brave, but they are rewarded for it. We are captivated and do not need constant distraction. The play ramps back up when needed and doesn’t indulge in silence when not needed but I feel it was an intentional decision and should be recognised. 

This is a wonderful, modern take on an often-mined subject matter that brings a fresh approach and perspective on the tragedy of war.

★ ★ ★ ★