Cosmic – Liverpool’s Royal Court

Cosmic, written by Joe McNally and directed by Deborah Yhip, is a comedy drama telling the story of Vinnie (Andy McLeod) and the real world he has uncovered through his enthusiastic investigation into the world of conspiracy theories. His interest in the darker side of society was sparked by the death of his father, Billy, from cancer. Convinced that the newly built 5G towers are to blame for the loss of his father, Vinnie is determined to both uncover the truth of the harm caused by 5G and to put a stop to it once and for all. September 11th is the perfect date for him to put his plan into action as this is the anniversary of his father’s passing. Unfortunately, it is also his daughter Kirsty’s (Kalli Tant) sixteenth birthday, and he has promised his mother, Lesley (Claire Hackett) to arrange a special celebration for her. Pizzas in the shed he’s living in following the breakdown of his marriage seem like the perfect solution, but can he really bring down the establishment while simultaneously being a perfect Dad?

The cluttered set, designed by Christopher McCourt, complete with Stevie G cardboard cut-out, Ian Brown poster and brightly coloured rainbow flag, creates a perfect sense of family storage and makeshift home for Vinnie. The shed is also where Vinnie hosts his podcast for the Truth and Freedom Seekers, or TAFS, where he describes the true horrific nature of the world we’re living in. TAFS is funded through the sale of cannabis, though Vinnie’s young student friend, Oisin (Connor Henry) wants to expand into more expensive substances. Vinnie however is dead against selling chemicals which close instead of open the mind, as this goes against everything he stands for.

This is a very funny comedy with a lot of poignancy at its heart. The play manages to accomplish the impossible and shows people discussing differing opinions without vitriolic arguing or permanent fallings out. Wonderfully awkward humour keeps the plot moving forward while the touching story of a family living with raw and unexpected grief brings an emotional resonance that everyone can identify with.

Explorations of social media and its role in shaping our opinions is both thought provoking and realistic as the online world spills into real life. The dynamic between McLeod and Mark Rice-Oxley, playing Ernie, leader of rival group the Freedom Fighters, is excellent and their conflict features plenty of laugh out loud moments. Rice-Oxley’s portrayal is delightfully devious and Henry’s additions to Vinnie’s quarrel with Ernie are very funny. Henry’s energetic performance is hilarious and captivating as he clumsily tries to fit into the world and Vinnie’s inner circle and his solo serenade to Kirsty at her party is fantastically cringeworthy.

The father/daughter relationship between McLeod and Tant is also very strong and Hackett adds a good side to this as Kirsty’s Nan, who has also been massively impacted by her husband’s death, but is becoming increasingly concerned about Vinnie’s situation. The family relationship between all three cast members is very believable and their natural behaviour and body language enhance the poignant elements of the story. 

Vinnie’s interaction with his Ian Brown poster, cleverly animated by sound and video designer, Jamie Jenkin, is highly original and a great addition to the piece. A very clever way to develop Vinnie’s character while keeping the pace alive, this element also highlighted how Vinnie is only trying to do his best for his family and is full of good intentions.

Cosmic is an entertaining look at today’s world and shows the easiness of finding yourself on a slippery slope down the rabbit hole. The more Vinnie looks for conspiracies, the more secrets and lies he finds, and the more he finds, the harder it is for him to see the secrets people have actually been keeping from him. This is a hilarious play with plenty of hysterical moments, but there is also a tender family story at the heart of it which will make you think about how important it is to appreciate the people around you. 

Cosmic is showing at the Royal Court until 8th April 2023. Tickets are available here https://liverpoolsroyalcourt.com/whats-on/cosmic/  

Reviewer: Donna M Day

Reviewed: 22nd March 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★