Reviewer: Kenny Mehr
Writer: Lucinda Coyle
Director: Samuel Xavier
“Flawlessly Fantastic”
5 / 5
Everyone documents their relationship milestones – the first date, first kiss, first time meeting the parents. A and B are no different; they recount their love story from the very first moment right up until the last. This is a classic romantic comedy, but with an interesting dynamic, as it is a show devoid of labels – no names, genders, ages, or descriptions are used within the script, meaning every role can be undertaken by any actor. On top of this, each night features a live casting with 16 different character combinations, offering endless possibilities.
This is a magnificently written script from writer Lucinda Coyle, filled with tenderness and poignancy, executed perfectly by director Samuel Xavier. Coyle and Xavier effortlessly capture the essence of a relationship, showcasing each intimate moment as brief, engaging snapshots of their time together. Coyle’s characters are so believable and genuine that the audience are immediately engrossed with their story, besotted with the blossoming love between them and warmed by their relatable interactions. The beauty beneath this script, is that it doesn’t come from complex story arcs or exaggerated plot points, instead it emerges from taking a series of traditionally mundane moments and transforming them into brilliantly funny and endearing memories within a relationship. Interactions such as putting flat-pack furniture together or bickering about eachothers living habits – moments so common and relatable, that the audience instantly connect with the characters and the progression of their relationship.
Photography: Lulu Cam – Lulu Anderson
The live casting is done at the very beginning of each show – no real fanfare, just a simple selection using individual light up books, before delving straight into the story. Beca Barton and Eoin Quinlan are mesmerising in their roles as A and B, chillingly tense during their argument scene, but beautifully gentle and sweet during their romantic interactions. They are incredibly believable and ooze charisma and charm through their portrayals. Joshua Eldridge-Smith as Friend is a fantastic competitor for A’s affections, his subtle but self-assured take on the character works perfectly and provides a fantastic dose of drama to the narrative. The choice to keep Sibling and Friend out of most of the storyline until Act Two is a good one, because it allows the audience to completely invest in the progression between A and B, rather than toying with who to root for and discrediting the sweetness of their connection. Annie Loftus is great as Sibling, using their easy delivery and authenticity to provide a brilliant dose of humour. As every show is casted differently, it would be fantastic to see these actors in alternate roles to see their approach to each character.
While this was the first time we got to experience this fantastic show, it definitely won’t be the last. An absolute triumph from start to finish, this faultless script is performed by a wonderful cast and will easily have a very long, very successful future ahead of it.
Runs Until 14 June 2023
RatedReviewed 