REVIEW: TO WATCH A MAN EAT by Sadie Pearson at Old Red Lion Theatre 24 – 28 September 2024

‘edgy and a little twisted’ ★★★★

Who doesn’t love a class war in which the rich don’t come off any too well? Is this a universal feeling? Do we all believe that those who relish the power are also those who don’t have a very good work-life balance?  Certainly, this is the premise for TO WATCH A MAN EAT. It has the added spice of woman who so craves power that she will stop at nothing to have it and hold it. How refreshing to see a woman in such a heatless role.

Sadie Pearson’s writing is piquant and clever, with a subplot which informs the main plot. Firefighter, Micky, has a wonderful attitude towards work and towards play, he’s an okay kind of guy. He’s putting his life at risk in caring for public safety and this makes him a terrific contrast to Investment banker Andrew. Andrew is up in the early hours to catch the train which is an ‘hour-long journey if you take it at peak time’. He’s sure of his superiority to the average bloke on the street and he revels in his success. His partner, Melissa, backs him all the way, she’s only interested in winners and Andrew is hers. The refrain about the hour’s journey to work, changes each time it is repeated until the moment of self-realization, this isn’t what Andrew wants in life, but how does he get Melissa to see his point of view.

The two men only meet once in the play, but it is a significant moment. Two strangers, and a kind word from Micky, reinforces Andrew’s decision. A lovely thought that a kind word can really help others to see more clearly and perhaps avert disaster, but only perhaps.

The show is set up for touring, with just a few boxes which are moved by the players to reset scenes very effectively. Lots of praise for the show, but with a couple of small niggles. If the show is a thriller, it certainly doesn’t have any sense of urgency as the pacing is all on one level.    Sadly, there’s not much sound or lighting, but the show is crying out for a couple of effects, such as the chip pan fire, to give an extra sense of theatricality. No doubt these are personal preferences, and the company are deliberately keeping it simple, just relying on great performances from the cast. And they do deliver.

George Usher as Micky has the audience in the palm of his hand from the moment he steps into the playing area. With just one look we are under his spell and he’s funny too, with impeccable timing, cherry plum pauses and a super connection with the audience. George Lorimer as Andrew is wonderfully pompous ass, and then sweetly lost little boy, once he decides to plump for a better life. Lily Walker is totally believable as the horrendous Melissa.  Also, the sex acts between the couple (both fully clothed) are very well done, leaving nothing to the imagination.  It is really brave work from the actors who are totally unabashed and show total commitment. We’re all adults here.

Well worth catching this show, a lovely addition to Old Red Lion’s preference for shows which are edgy or a little twisted. Ticks both boxes.

TO WATCH A MAN EAT by Sadie Pearson at Old Red Lion Theatre, Islingotn 24 – 28 September 2024

Box Office https://www.oldredliontheatre.co.uk/to-watch-a-man-eat.html

Produced by Full Frontal Theatre

https://fullfrontaltheatre.com/