Spit In My Face, Something Queer Productions Review
Written by Emily D for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.
Raw, insightful and vulnerable. Three descriptors for Matthias Moret’s production of Spit In My Face.
Spit in my Face explores the complexities of polyamorous relationships, a topic which is often misunderstood. It is an honest and thought-provoking piece, with audience interactions blurring the line between performance and authenticity. The play also focuses on themes of gender, modern queer dating life and self-acceptance, guiding the audience through the intricate relationship between Pierre and Adam through compelling storytelling.
A one-person show is always a risk, however, Moret masterfully held the space in Camden Peoples Theatre. The audience were on the edge of their seats, eagerly waiting for the highly spoken about Adam to walk through the door and growing increasingly connected to Pierre as the play unfolds. Moments which could have dragged and become awkward, such as Moret buttoning up a shirt on a hanger, instead felt captivating and poignant, drawing the audience in to try and uncover Pierre’s inner thoughts.
Despite the play’s more serious and vulnerable themes, comedic relief was integrated to keep the character genuine and relatable. These lighter moments welcomed a contrast to the intense nature of the writing, with moments of laughter and familiarity. The humour felt well-paced, so that the audience did not feel uncomfortable when sharing a laugh with their neighbour, while still allowing enough space for the more sensitive and intimate moments.
The lighting and set, although not the centrepiece of this captivating and unique piece of theatre, played a significant role to enhance the story. The most impactful was the transition to a darker, rich blue where Pierre expressed his darkest and unfiltered thoughts with the audience through a microphone, creating a sense of being inside his head. This lighting change become familiar visual cue, helping the audience anticipate the emotional weight that was about to come. The set was minimal; however, this simplicity allowed for the intense and vulnerable nature of the performance to shine. Props, such as flowers which symbolised the initial meeting and the representation of the people outside of their relationship, were extremely effective, always supporting the narrative seamlessly.
Spit in My Face is a proactive, insightful and authentic piece of theatre, leaving audience members deeply connected to the protagonist and more open to the experiences and desires of others.
At Camden People’s Theatre until 23 August 2024.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
