Algebra – Unity Theatre

Amongst a packed-out audience, the debut performance of Algebra was well received, and I took the time to appreciate the platform for queer expression that Unity and Stuart Crowther provided.

Being a play of two characters, the stage can become a big space. Yet, Stuart and Kieran Mason carried the story with a professionalism and flare, and the space felt perfectly filled. 

The connection of the actors, and the whole creative team for that matter, was noticeable. Due to the sensitive and intimate themes, it was evident that each artist supported each other in the space, allowing one another to explore the light and shade in the emotional rawness of the story.

Sam McKay and Morven Currie chose an uncluttered, open space to frame the story. The plants brought a calmness to the space, and a suitable arena for the powerful language to shine.

As a non-queer identifying person, I was grateful to watch this new play. The slow unpicking of what it means to love was the crux of this story, and though an experience for the LGBTQIA+ community, it is also an experience of humanity as a whole. This play provides an unexplanatory lesson of a small aspect of the queer world, and so should be watched by those who want to learn.

At times, pace was slow, which meant that the violent climax was not as felt as it could have been. Also, I felt that changing music over dialogue was occasionally disjointing, especially music with lyrics. That said, these attributes would work wonders on radio, and I put it to the creative team to experiment with Algebra as a radio play, I think the impact would be even better.

However, the silences were uncomfortably loud, and my small preferences did not overshadow the weight of Evan and Adam’s story.

If you are looking to watch a play that leaves the theatre with you, Algebra is just that. Full of inuendo, campness and sandwiches, it is an important story and one that should be listened to.

It is only running at Unity until 10th March, but I’m sure it will pop up elsewhere. Click the link if you’re around for the final performance: https://www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk/whats-on/algebra/

Reviewer: Hannah Esnouf

Reviewed: 9th March 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★