Jack Studio Theatre – until 20 January 2024
Reviewed by Claire Roderick
4****
The week leading up to your wedding is stressful enough, but throw in the bride’s sister’s divorce party, the groom’s father’s funeral and strife with his estranged family, and something has to give. Aimee Walker-Reid’s intelligent and intense play follows Lois (Walker-Reid) and Matt (Finlay Vane Last) as they struggle to cope with Matt’s mental health as the big day approaches.
The chaos and upset of living with, and caring for somebody with mental health issues is represented wonderfully through Tamra Walker-Reid’s set design – with household objects suspended over the stage, their contents frozen as they spill. Matt’s diagnosis is never made clear, but as the play progresses, we find out that he cannot leave the house without Lois and some emotionally charged video, lighting and music design (by Morgan Burgess and Grace Gjertson) accompany fine physicality from Vane Last to portray the paralysis and fear he experiences.
Vane Last is charismatic and nuanced as the tormented, frustrating but sweet Matt, while Walker-Reid excels as his anchor – strong, loving and forever accommodating, but suddenly fiery when Matt’s actions become too much and she finally lets rip and releases her frustrations. This scene and its repercussions would not quite ring true without the clever flashbacks to each 31st December of their relationship, portraying their hope and the strength of their love. There are very funny moments throughout and Walker-Reid has written two utterly convincing and sympathetic characters and draws the audience into their world effortlessly, while George Rowlands’ slick direction maintains a tension that never lags in this fascinating and powerful play.