Aggy | Park Theatre

Lawrence is a struggling artist - emphasis on the struggling - who has faced rejection after rejection, meanwhile his rival, Rex, is thriving in the creative world as a newly out and proud enby. Then his partner, Mahlik has an idea to secure Lawrence’s success, but it comes at a great cost as ugly truths rear their head.

The other half of the double bill of plays written by Paul Bradshaw, the current production at Park Theatre marks Aggy's official world premiere. 

It is upon seeing this show that we begin to spot that Bradshaw has a distinct writing style and pattern. However, that doesn’t create monotony or predictability like it might in some cases, nor does it detract from the immense importance and power of this show. 

It is very uncomfortable to watch, in the best way, due to the nature of the subjects that arise: privilege as dictated by race and gender, how these differences can cause points of both connection and conflict and how intersectionality can influence and/or limit creativity. The role of social media in our lives is at the forefront, arguably exacerbating everything that happens in the story, forcing us to question how we use it. Is it a place for empowerment or policing? Is it a tool we use to hide loneliness? Is it escapable? 

The design really helps to generate a sense of overwhelming claustrophobia. Bright coloured, flashing/strobe lights pierce the crowded naturalistic set and phone screen projection overpowers the space with its omnipresence. 

Such a gripping two-hander needs strong actors undaunted by the script, thankfully the casting is perfect. 

Jean-Luke Worrell portrays the character of Mahlik with acute attention to detail, meaning that whilst he conveys him as emotionally closed off, his body tells a completely different story. This allows us to see his character’s urge to break out of the containers society has forced him to be in, whilst also staying true to his character’s morals and world view.    

Matthew Jordan is a vibrant paint palette of an actor, with his energetic yet emotionally dexterous performance of Lawrence. He seems to feed off Worrell’s energy and echo it back, making their character’s relationship feel more real. He’s careful to hit the lines of performance without going over them, meaning that Lawrence feels both believable and relatable. 

Intense and deeply thought provoking. Decidedly not the easiest watch yet so compelling and relevant. This holds up an inner camera and dares you to stare at it.

Aggy plays alongside Tell Me Straight at the Park Theatre until 28th March - tickets and  more information can be found here.

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Craig Fuller