Review: F**KING MEN, Waterloo East Theatre
Photo credit: Darren Bell
Joe DiPietro’s F**king Men first opened in 2009 and has seen multiple revivals in its 14 year history, including runs in the United States and at the Edinburgh Fringe. Based on Arthur Schnitzler’s 1897 play La Ronde, DiPietro’s piece explores the experiences of ten gay men and how their sexual interactions impact their daily lives.
Although the characters are named, more focus is put upon their professions. We meet a hooker, soldier, teacher, student, married man, financier, porn star, playwright, actor and a journalist. Each character interacts with two others, keeping the chain going and eventually leads us back to the hooker that we met at the top of the show, learning that life has moved on for him since his first scene and that he is now looking to settle down.
In the programme, DiPietro mentions his desire to update the script so that younger audiences recognise the current gay scene and engage with each of the men in the story. Some believe in love, monogamy and happily ever after, while others are more focused on enjoying their sexual freedom, gay culture and self expression.
The script is funny, fast paced and culturally very relevant, with references to Only Fans, dating apps, and the use of Prep. It never feels preachy and celebrates the freedom of choice that each of the ten individuals enjoys. The humour is balanced by some darker themes including blackmail, deceit and loss, and these moments feel all the more poignant against the levity of the piece as a whole.
The small playing space at Waterloo East Theatre is well utilised, with a simple set designed by Cara Evans. A row of acrylic screens runs diagonally across the stage and Alex Lewers effective lighting design means that individual panels can be used to great effect by either being transparent or opaque. At times, the lighting adds a clubby vibe to the show, and at others is much more naturalistic, as the men occupy a dorm room, an office space, a bedroom and a broom cupboard.
F**king Men boasts an exceptional cast, comprised of Alex Britt, Charlie Condou (only scheduled to appear until 21 May), Derek Mitchell and Stanton Plummer-Cambridge. Each performer uses subtle but definable differences in mannerisms to differentiate between the multiple roles that they embody, and each character is relatable and likeable while still conveying a very human vulnerability. Loneliness, shame, grief, fear and self-doubt are apparent, and skilfully communicated by this brave and masterful ensemble. The sexual intimacy between these strangers, lovers, couples and partners is often palpable, and a credit to Lee Crowley, the productions Intimacy Director. The fairly frequent nudity feels entirely in keeping with the nature of the story and the raw emotion displayed on the stage.
This sex positive production is a funny, thought provoking and relevant piece of theatre, but isnt for those of a prudish disposition!
**** Four stars.
Reviewed by: Sarah Brown
F**king Men plays at Waterloo East Theatre until 18 June, with further information here.