Beautiful Thing – Storyhouse, Chester

Disley Theatrical Productions return for their third production, this time making their debut at Storyhouse, Chester. The Garrett Theatre is usually a bare studio space, so it was nice to see it used in a different way with a set that brought the piece to life. Designed by Phil Cross and built by Mark Disley, the main set is the front of three flats in which the characters live, and the communal area outside the front of the flats is where the story is played out, where issues are aired and dealt with. We are occasionally taken to Jamie’s bedroom where a bed is brought to the centre of the stage area and where some tender scenes take place.

Beautiful Thing follows the story of three teenagers struggling with their own issues. Jamie who is being bullied at school for being gay, Ste who is constantly at the end of his brother and Father’s beatings, and Leah, who is just struggling to get through life, seemingly on her own. All set to a fantastic soundtrack that fits in with the storyline wonderfully.

The whole cast are wonderful, giving their all, bringing all the humour, emotion, and truth to each character to make this show relatable and real. You feel like you know these people, even at times, we are these people. This show needs a strong cast to be told well and this cast are extremely strong. The connection between them all is fantastic, and you feel at ease throughout.

Jack Marsh as Jamie is brilliant in the role, cheeky yet naïve and vulnerable. Jake Cross plays Ste with just the right amount of anger and sadness. Catherine Bryant is a tour de force as Sandra, delivering some excellent lines with great comic timing, showing her tough exterior but you see through to the heart when you need to. Abi Hoarty brings the loud, mischievous, Mama Cass loving Leah bouncing to life with a gorgeous singing voice, a great confidence and wonderful comedy. And finally, Dan Costello as Sandra’s latest boyfriend, Tony, is fantastic. The character just wants to fit in and be involved, therefore becoming a character that he thinks everyone wants him to be. Costello brings a soft, needy side to the character, full of wanting but hilarious with it.

Lighting is simple but very effective and provided, along with sound, by Ryan Bird. Director Phil Edwards has brought this piece together beautifully, keeping it genuine, subtle, and enjoyable. Scene changes were mostly done in black out, but they were smooth, slick, and carried out by the cast, but shoutout to stage manager Brogan Craine for keeping everything flowing along backstage.

Disley Theatrical Productions once again has brought a wonderful piece of theatre to life, and it is well worth a visit.

Tickets available from www.storyhouse.com/whats-on/beautiful-thing-by-jonathan-harvey/ running until Saturday 14^th September

Reviewer Damian Riverol

Reviewed: 11^th September 2024

North West End UK Rating: