Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse, London – 18th March 2026
Reviewed by Celia AS
4****
Jacob Poole is rowing across the ocean on his own with just himself and a handful of social media followers for company. Livestreaming for his dad and six other people, he’s committed to raising money for a charity close to his heart and he’s got a great story to accompany his fundraising but is it history to tell. Jacob’s “channel” soon catches people’s attention bringing sudden internet fame. Swell, written by and starring Rufus McGrath, is a one man play that examines the isolation of internet fame, the lengths people will go to to maintain it, and the impact it has on those around them.
McGrath deftly weaves the upbeat and optimistic social media updates with a quiet isolation in which he is not afraid to sit. Under the direction of Charlie Collinson, Swell takes on the ambitious challenge of evoking the vast emptiness of the ocean within the walls of a small pub theatre, and it succeeds. A modest set of a wooden structure with some riggers and oars attached is a boat and that’s all that is needed. McGrath never really stands up straight and moves around the confines of the space with studied precision. The play is beautifully paced and the result is a production that is part uplifting story of endurance and part Black Mirror episode that makes you feel deep unease.
Jordan Lewis’ technical direction seamlessly integrates visuals and lighting. Each lighting choice from head torches in the darkness to blaring sun, coupled with the social media videos projected on to the wall prove especially effective, offering a window into Jacob’s growing online following and the repetitiveness of his life at sea.
While the writing invites ambiguity encouraging us to question Jacob’s motives, his past decisions, and the sincerity of his endeavour, it is Rufus McGrath’s magnetic presence that anchors the piece. Even though there is some real humour peppered throughout, it is the quiet intensity to his portrayal that keeps us fully invested, mirroring the curiosity of Jacob’s virtual followers. I just hope Jacob makes it home.