Review: SHOOTING STAR: A REVEALING NEW MUSICAL, Two Brewers Clapham
Photo credit: [HAWT!]
When aspiring actor Taylor Trent moved to Hollywood to kickstart his career, he didn't expect to be spotted and sucked into the world of gay porn. Awakened to new possibilities and under the guidance of his new found family, he works on performing his way to stardom, earning himself the nickname of ‘TNT’. But will fame be worth sacrificing true connection?
This semi-autobiographical show was first performed in Los Angeles in 2019. Following this, it had an Off-Broadway run in 2022 and the current run marks its official London transfer. However, the idea to write a musical about gay porn dates all the way back to 2012 when book writer Florian Klein took on the porn persona, Hans Berlin. He comments in his note in the show’s program: “Porn was never anything I had planned. I just fell into it…Fascinated by this world I had found, I suddenly felt the urge to write about it.”
All of this begs the question of how exactly a musical about gay porn would translate to the stage, given that the subject matter is one that typically happens privately behind locked doors. The answer is, when it’s as carefully considered as this show is, it translates very successfully. We are surprised with the thought that is given to the direction of the show, turning what could be considered to be a ‘dirty’ subject into a true piece of art. With its use of club dancing and its attention to detail in bodily gestures, it doesn’t underestimate the intelligence of the audience in understanding implications and, in doing so, allows the audience to gain a new perspective into the artistry of porn.
But it isn’t just the view that has us captivated; this show has a sincere beating heart. It makes a bold statement by playing to both sides of the bedroom. On the one hand, showcasing the best parts of the gay porn industry through presenting it as a career to be proud of, one which is full of acceptance of each individual's gifts and where strong friendships can be forged. On the other hand, acknowledging that it can be a very cut-throat and toxic environment that can be hard for individuals to move on from when they are ready to leave.
The stroke of genius in this show was to throw love into the mix. We are hooked on the will-they-won’t-they relationship between Taylor Trent (played by Conor O’Cuinn) and Jesse Apollo (played by Alex White). As they explore the perils of falling in romantic love whilst having to be performative sexual scene partners, the audience is right there with them, riding the highs and lows of the difficulties caused by mixing work and genuine pleasure. O'Cuinn and White have powerful stage presences, and it’s clear that they understand their characters intimately and are able to carry this throughout the melodic songs they sing together. They harmonise and contrast beautifully, doing great justice to the show's lyrics.
It is the best agony to sit and watch James Grant (played by Jonny Woo) spiral as he falls from grace having aged out of the business. We didn’t expect our hearts to be broken by this gentle, guiding, gay dad figure. A nuanced role performed with grace and dignity.
It’s also worth mentioning that Mr Sue’s (played by Divina De Campo) song ‘He Was My Friend’ has to be seen to be believed. A truly stand-out eleven o’clock number, the diamond in a libretto of sparkling crystals.
A uniquely witty celebration of gay porn and queer culture, with a sincere and moving core.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Megan O’Neill
