Review: THE TAILOR-MADE MAN, Stage Door Theatre

Photo credit: Peter Davies

Set against the dazzling backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, The Tailor-Made Man recounts the meteoric rise and fall of William Haines, the era's top box office sensation who eclipsed even Greta Garbo. Featuring Hugo Pilcher as William 'Billy' Haines, Gwithian Evans as Jimmie Shields, Peter Rae as Howard Strickling, Dereck Walker as Louis B. Mayer, Shelley Rivers as Marion Davies, and Olivia Ruggerio in dual roles as Carole Lombard and Pola Negri, this ambitious production has a lot of promise. However, despite the intriguing premise and talented cast, the play struggles to maintain coherence amidst a cluttered narrative and lacklustre direction.

The story of an ordinary man's rise to stardom and subsequent downfall, driven by the ruthless machinations of Hollywood’s powerful figures, holds compelling dramatic potential. The rivalry among studios, the transition to talkies, and Haines' controversial firing by Louis B. Mayer are rich with intrigue. Yet, the script fails to sustain a coherent trajectory, leaving the audience bewildered as characters move abruptly between scenes. For instance, a character’s sudden departure leaving Haines to figure himself but equally sudden return in the exact next scene misses an opportunity to explore their journey and growth for the character of William Haines in a meaningful way.

Dereck Walker’s portrayal of Louis B. Mayer is a standout. His commanding stage presence transports the audience to a new era, effectively conveying Mayer’s domineering influence.

The narrative oscillates between Hollywood's business side and personal relationships, further muddling the story. While these elements are clearly intertwined, the script fails to balance them, often neglecting one aspect for the other.

Gwithian Evans' performance as Jimmie Shields is heartfelt and believable, showcasing deep love and devotion. However, his character often feels isolated amidst the chaotic storytelling. This disjointed narrative raises questions about the protagonist's identity and the point of view we are meant to follow, a confusion that persists until the very end.

Despite its flaws, The Tailor-Made Man captures some of the glamour and turmoil of 1930s Hollywood. The rivalry between studios, the personal and professional stakes, and the dramatic downfall of a once-bright star are all elements that could make for a compelling play. However, the current production’s lack of direction, uneven writing, and cluttered narrative prevent it from fully realising its potential.

With a more focused script and clearer character trajectories, this play could shine as brightly as its historical inspiration once did. For now, it remains a story with great potential that is lost amidst its own ambition.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Beatriz Do O

The Tailor-Made Man plays at London’s Stage Door Theatre until 3 August, with further info here.