The Crumple Zone ★★ Waterloo East Theatre | Nov 26 - Dec 22, 2024


Set on Staten Island at Christmastime The Crumple Zone presents a holiday picture that is far from jolly. In 1998, when the play was written it probably shocked audiences. Its portrayal of a gay man whose bisexual flatmate is cheating on his girlfriend with another man might have seemed like pretty racy stuff. Times have changed, however, and the surprising nature of the situation is no longer there. The question then arises of whether this show would work if it were simply a tale of heterosexual infidelity, and the best friend was not a very camp gay man. Unfortunately, the answer is "no." Interest in the plot really depends on the novelty of a situation which is no longer very novel. Playwright, Buddy Thomas, also creates characters who do not garner much sympathy. As played by James Grimm, the gay friend, Terry, comes across as simply a mass of manic insecurity and self-pity. The bisexual cheater, Alex (Jonny Davidson), seems to be both callous and shallow, while girlfriend Sam (Sinéad Donnelly) and boyfriend Buck (James Mackay) are simply sketched in. It is difficult to conjure up much interest in whether Alex will abandon girlfriend Sam for boyfriend Buck, and it seems unlikely that either party would benefit much from having him as a presence in their lives. In fact, most of the characters seem immature, bordering on unlikeable. The thematic heart of the piece is Terry's second act speech about the crumple zone which seems to come out of nowhere and demonstrates an insight that bears little relation to his previous hysterical behaviour. However, the play does have some funny moments. Terry's long rants often seem over-written, but they have some good lines that definitely merit a chuckle. The Crumple Zone is billed as a comedy, but despite the fact that its ultimate message may be uplifting, it doesn't really offer a great deal of Christmas cheer.

Rated: ★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Peter Davies

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