The Lodger – Lion & Unicorn Theatre, Kentish Town (Camden Fringe)  

Reviewer: Christine Stanton

Writer: Lauren Lewis

Directors: Sam Dafydd-Williams & Lauren Lewis

“Sitcom Style Storyline“

4 / 5

After working-class David is suddenly made redundant from his job, his wife Kate is desperate to find a solution to help with the rising cost of living for her family. She decides to take in Andrea – a student lodger from Italy from a wealthy background, readily available to help chip in to the rent and other expenses, but Andrea’s arrival causes more chaos than the family could have ever imagined.

Lauren Lewis has natural comedic writing talent – her humorous script is easy to follow and quick to engage. The characters are established immediately, and are relatable and recognisable, giving a ‘self-contained sitcom’ style feel to the storyline. David (Max Potter) is the stereotypical ‘never left his town’ die-hard football fan father, he doesn’t understand the appeal of travelling and he is frustrated at needing to rely on assistance from a wealthy student to help pay his rent while unemployed. Sisters Lily (Niam Deasy) and Megan (Lauren Lewis) rather than falling into the standard expectation of constant arguing and competition, instead seem relatively close, confiding in each other about their feelings and banding together against their parents. Mum Kate (Lucy Valentina) and Megan’s boyfriend Chris (Alfie Jameson) are the glue that hold the family together – both very positive and upbeat, they try and find the best in situations, avoid causing any conflict and fuss around trying to make the others happy. Outsider Andrea (Jacopo Mascitelli) provides the well needed drama and conflict for the performance, rather than a total villain, he’s cheeky and likeable, with just his bad decisions being his downfall.

Although this show is predominantly a comedy – there are still a few political statements and current affairs commentary sprinkled into the script, giving it more depth and setting it aside from just being a humorous hour of farce. Potter’s character raises the issue of class divide and financial struggles frequently, commenting on the struggle to keep afloat while still trying to provide. Lily and Megan have various interesting conversations about feeling lost in the world – the change from university and trying to carve a path for their future evidently stressful, as it is for many young adults in current society. The characters aren’t complex or over-thought, the relatability of them and their struggles allowing the points to clearly be conveyed.

This is a strong script performed by a talented cast. The narrative slowly unfolds, revealing a few twists and shock reveals as it proceeds, contributing to the humour and providing additional conflict throughout. Each cast member does a great job and is integral to the well-timed comedy and quick moving scenes that Lewis has brilliantly crafted.

Runs until 21 August 2023