The acclaimed Douglas Maxwell’s new play, Man’s Best Friend, opened at the Traverse Theatre having previously played at the Tron in Glasgow. Directed by the Tron’s Artistic Director, Jemima Levick, and starring Jordan Young, a rising star in Edinburgh’s famous panto, this play is both laugh-out-loud hilarious and also beautifully emotive.
Ronnie (Young) is a dog walker tasked with walking his neighbor’s beloved pooches. However, when the belt holding their leads breaks, the dogs are left running free into the woodlands of the local park. Alone, Ronnie is left with his thoughts as he navigates through the trees, searching for the runaway canines. And his mind begins to wander, perhaps it’s answers and understanding he’s looking for also.
From the outset, Young crafts a natural and engaging performance. It is no mean feat performing in a solo show, yet Young does this with so much grace and understanding of his craft. Miles away from the ‘he’s behind you’ of panto season, it’s fantastic to see Jordan take on a more dramatic role. His comedic timing is exquisite, taking just the right amount of pause to make sure Maxwell’s quips land perfectly. However, it is during moments of a more serious tone that Young shines. The audience understands there is more to Ronnie than meets the eye. Young adds a lot of subtlety into this performance, teasing the audience with the reveal of his inner turmoil before taking us back into the high pace of walking 5 unruly pets.
Levick’s direction is commendable. The pacing of the show is fantastic, flipping between high energy and somber moments, still allowing the audience to catch up and take in everything that’s going on. The space has been carefully used, allowing Young to use the practical set (designed by the notorious Becky Minto) to its full effect.
Minto’s design showcases the open park space brilliantly while also giving an intimate, closed-in feeling for Ronnie as he navigates his deeper thoughts. Illustrations by Ross Collins are projected onto the wooded backdrop to show the dogs Ronnie is walking. A nice added touch that is simple yet very effective.
Man’s Best Friend is a heart-warming piece filled with humour. Filled with love, loss and adoration so many have for their furry friends, even if they can be troublesome.
Man’s Best Friend runs until September 27th and tickets are available at https://www.traverse.co.uk/whats-on/event/mans-best-friend-autumn-25
Reviewer: Dylan Mooney
Reviewed: 25th September 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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