Game Play – Jack Studio Theatre, Brockley

Writer: R.K. Chui
Director: Aoife Scott

Reviewer: Christine Stanton

“Messy & Playful“

3 / 5

When Dom and Izzy first met, it was clear they had both met their match – playful, competitive and daring, they hit it off instantly over cheesy karaoke and the spiciest curry they’d ever eaten.

Fast-forward and they’re now living together in an open relationship. Izzy (Hayley Calleia) isn’t sure she particularly likes Dom (Sam Law) coming home after dates with tales of the new women he’s hit it off with, but she equally knows a standard relationship definitely doesn’t suit her. Dom is head over heels with Izzy – he doesn’t want to meet anyone new, but if dating around is what it’ll take to keep her, he’s willing to give it a go. Power dynamics are tested, boundaries are crossed, and their dating game of cat and mouse gets pushed to the limit.

R.K. Chui’s fast-paced narrative, similar to the characters relationship, is messy and slightly confusing, but still a lot of fun. Under Aoife Scott’s direction, the storyline jumps from each scene and interaction very quickly, often leaving a sense of ambiguity as to how much time has passed or what’s actually happening. The first scene depicts the pair on their first date, but then before you know it, they’re in an open relationship and figuring out whether they even want to stay together. Without any context of their relationship having progressed – it initially just seems like after the date, they had decided to be friends. Some clarity on this would really help bring the audience up to speed quicker and allow them to fully engage with the narrative. The manic, fast-paced scene shifts, creates confusion, and at points a bit of breathing room before the next interaction, would allow the impact of their conversations to really take hold and make a statement.

The fun aspect is fully present from beginning to end – the charismatic, likeable performers keeping the energy high and their chemistry fizzing throughout. With music being used as a tool to speak for the characters, there is a lot of karaoke, which brings a unique, joyfully playful aspect to the production. Another innovative addition, is the meta element that is incorporated, occasionally the duo break the fourth wall, pretend that a scene was supposed to go differently or discuss together how they want to portray their story, before reverting back to normal. It’s a nice extra touch, especially when ‘Alexa’ talks back, which is very funny.

Game Play breaks the mould of a traditional show and smashes the boundaries of a typical relationship – though some polished refinements are needed, it’s still a fun, enjoyable show.

Runs until 7 June 2025