Review by: Paul Towers, 18 February 2019
Rubber Ring by James McDermott, directed by Siobhan
James-Elliott
Performed by James McDermott for DMU Pride
Curve 18/2/19
“an assured performance”
James McDermott’s debut play is a largely autobiographical
reflection of the frustration of growing up in the rural backwater that is
Sheringham in Norfolk. As his mother says ‘it’s fine to be born here, great to
retire to but you don’t want to spend the bit inbetween here’
As the sexually confused 16 year old fictional version of
himself, Jimmy latches on to his hero, Morrisey, for inspiration on how to
live. To this end he tries desperately to get to London and the gold paved
streets around the O2 to see his idol in concert.
His adventures getting there awaken an awareness that, as
Dorothy says, there is really no place like home. Even if it is somewhere to
come back to sometimes.
McDermott’s writing has very obvious shades of Alan Bennet
and Victoria Wood in his ability to paint a complete picture with few words.
Looking very much like a young Derek Jacobi McDermotts
assured performance brings a whole host of characters to life before your eyes
in a laugh out loud, poignant story of coming of age.
I can see exactly why this show was scheduled for DMU Pride,
it is a comforting assurance that those teenage doubts and uncertainties can be
confronted and dealt with.
As part of DMU Pride at Curve on Wednesday 20th
February there is Drip, a one man musical comedy about a 15 year old
synchronised swimmer who can’t swim. Monday 25th February sees Gypsy
Queen’s return to Curve by popular demand. On Thursday 28th February
there is Joan, a drag king’s homage to the men she defies. Finally, for those
feeling brave, there is a dance workshop on Friday 22nd February for
those who want to learn to walk or dance in heels. Or maybe just take a class
for the hell of it!
Full details of Curve’s DMU Pride events can be found at https://tinyurl.com/yb4lm4x3 or via the
Curve website
The entire schedule of all events for DMU Pride can be found
at https://tinyurl.com/ybh4n4v7
http://ptheatre.blogspot.co.uk/
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