Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The day starts as any other, Marian (Hollie-Jay Bowes) practices her French while brushing her teeth, her partner David (David Gregan-Jones) does his best to convince that his business spiel has some actual meaning; it soon becomes clear however that their inconsequential chatter & random mutterings are merely a means of avoiding a much deeper, darker and undoubtedly more difficult conversation.

Affectionate chat becomes increasingly saturated with barbed comments as with each trip to the bathroom insecurities and an inability to communicate honestly are exposed.

Jack Thorne’s script is both challenging and remarkably honest, stripping each character both physically and emotionally. Laura Woodward’s focussed direction ensures warped domestic life takes centre stage as light-hearted interrogation becomes something altogether more shocking.

Hollie-Jay Bowes & David Gregan-Jones unselfconsciously move throughout the intimate space allowing the audience a genuine fly on the wall insight. Each have an ability to connect deeply with the audience; you feel their pain, their heartache, their frustrations as the reality of their grief in all it’s complicated detail is stripped bare.Their believability as a fractured couple allows the emotion of Jack Thorne’s piece to rise to a brutal and unexpected peak which literally knocks you for six. Both are outstanding.

Natalie Johnson’s set and costume design of varying shades of blue are lit to subtle yet dramatic effect by Joseph Thomas, a hint of what’s to come with a flash of colour lighting up the freestanding bath between scenes.

Wonderhouse Theatre succeed in delivering this provocative & powerful piece impressively well, holding the audience entirely for the full 75ish minutes. It is the kind of theatre that will remain in your thoughts for days, weeks, maybe more as you pour over the detail & examine the issues raised.

Brutal, honest and brilliantly executed theatre.

Catch Mydidae at Hope Mill Theatre until Saturday 23rd February tickets £12/14 are available here.