Velvet, Above the Stag Theatre - ★★★★ - Until October 27, 2019


Just tell the truth and do the right thing! If only it were that simple. All of us act from mixed motives all of the time. Indeed, we are not always aware of what all of our motives are. In Velvet, Tom Ratcliffe looks unsparingly at his character Ted's mixed motives in his relationship, and he then goes on to show how uncertainty about his own motives allows him to be seduced and manipulated in his career. Ted's story is an emotionally disturbing look at how easily one can be victimised by a predator whose own intentions are hidden but unwavering. While this is a #MeToo story, it is also much more. Tom Ratcliffe does an amazing job of bringing to life the characters in Ted's life, from his mother to his friend, Marcus, to the terrifying 'Sir.' The story unfolds at a lightning pace with time shifts and frequent character shifts, but thanks to Ratcliffe's outstanding performance we are never lost. The audience is able to follow this dark, but frequently humorous, tale with ease. Without giving to much away, the piece finally leaves us pondering another irony so relevant to our contemporary society. We see the culture of sexual exploitation defeated by personal strength, but also by the current cult of celebrity. Don't miss this one!

Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until October 27, 2019
Tue - Sat: 9 pm, Sun: 7:15 pm
Above The Stag Theatre
Nearest tube: Vauxhall
Map & Location: 72 Albert Embankment, Vauxhall, London SE1 7TP, UK

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