Double Act
TW: this review covers topics of the show which involves mental health and suicide.
What goes through someone's mind on their last day on earth? Is it to live it to the best or is it just another day.
This two-hander at Southwark Playhouse explores this as Nick Hyde's new play floats over some deep topics around mental health with a subtle narrative.
Over the 90 minutes one act play, we learn very little about the unnamed protagonist other than a slight white-male stereotype. He works a decent office job, has an ex-girlfriend he is not over, rents a flat in central London but is bored. Therefore this pattern of boredom leads him to wanting to take his own life.
Performed by writer Nick Hyde and Oliver Maynard the two are great in their portrayal of different characters and working together as a Double Act (hence the name). Donning vaguely white painted faces to appear clownish, the two present extravagant caricatures next to slightly harsher conversations, battling humour next to horror well.
Flicking through various locations and scenes, the sound design by Frederick Waxman immersed the action bringing to life the various sounds of phones, streets, hilltops and even tamaogchis. This was a much needed addition to the play to help the audience dive into the world.
Gaining a few laughs throughout alongside a few moments with great lines to shine a light on the struggles people face. The direction of Jeff Hall-Flavin toys with the audience well and allows us to question how comfortable people can be in their lives and what people are struggling with behind their eyes.
Unfortunately, this was very limited because everything in the plotline and storyline felt very out of touch with the current climate. This character who is driven to considering taking his own life appears to lead what most would consider a privileged lifestyle but it's not enough for him. Sitting in the audience there were plenty moments where I found myself wondering what it was that had gone so wrong in this person's life to cause such a mental decline as there was little in the play to explain it which made it difficult to connect.
Ultimately, a well acted piece with interesting ideas, but a storyline that's completely detached from the current climate and seems to suggest that life for privileged white males isn't good enough and attempts to create pity for those living in central London on well paid jobs not living pay check to pay check. A blinkered play performed well.
This show was reviewed on the 21st March 2025 at Southwark Playhouse Borough where it runs until the 5th April 2025. Tickets available here: Double Act - Southwark Playhouse Borough
Review written by Ryan Lenney
AD/Gifted
Photo credit : Tanya Pabaru
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