Jack Goes To Therapy – Bread & Roses Theatre, Clapham

Writer/Director: Zac Williams

Reviewer: Christine Stanton

“Warm & Well-Rounded“

3.5 / 5

Jack had big plans for his life – his career as a teacher was going well, he’d bought a ring and was all set to propose to his boyfriend on their romantic New Zealand getaway. That was, until his boyfriend left him for a guy they’d had a threesome with, and just like that, Jack’s left picking up the pieces to rebuild his future.

Although Zac Williams is the only performer in his self-written/self-acted/semi-biographical one man show, there is a wonderful array of characters and situations explored during the 60 minute runtime. Williams doesn’t fall into the trap of overacting his unseen counterparts, instead he takes a natural, more genuine approach to their role in his script. Co-workers, roommates and potential new love interests are all interacted with throughout, and although there aren’t any big accent or characterisation changes, it’s still always very definable when it’s not Jack in the spotlight. The well-rounded characters add a touch of humour into the storyline – with his depiction of the inquisitive children he teaches also adding an adorably touching moment, that brilliantly captures the innocent abruptness of childlike questioning.

The storyline itself is a relatively simple one – the experience of heartbreak and starting again not a new concept, but relatable and endearing nonetheless. The approach of Jack working through his issues in therapy and with conversations between the different people in his life is enjoyable, his likeable demeanour automatically getting the audience on side. The fact his character completely gives himself away and lays everything on the line, (even the more embarrassing moments one would normally keep to themselves), gives Jack an easy warmth, and compels the audience to engage with his efforts to recover from his breakup.

This is show that’ll leave a smile on your face as you leave the theatre – Zac Williams has great stage presence and has woven together an interesting story that is full of humour and heart.

Runs until 22^nd January 2025