Cock is raw, witty and intense fight
Cock, written by Mark Bartlett, directed by Shane Bosher Circa Theatre, until November 9 Reviewed by Sharron Pardoe
Stripped back – no scenery, props or mime – Cock mimics the real-life rhythm of daily interactions and fights between people who love each other.
It is raw, at times brutal and confrontational but everyone in the audience on Saturday night was brought into the intense action on the stage.
Shane Bosher’s tight direction and choreographic moves bring the sharp, and witty play to life. Intimate moments are very close and the actors are far removed to emphasise distance.
It reads like a simple story plot. John (Jack Buchanan) takes a break from his boyfriend of seven years M (Simon Leary) and accidentally meets the girl of his dreams W (Karin McCracken). Flipping back between the boy and the girl, he faces the difficulties that arise with his sexuality and what happens when you realise you have a choice.
With quick lighting changes used to transition between scenes, a bare white stage floor and backdrop, the minimalism puts all the drama on the actors and they don’t disappoint.
Buchanan masterfully takes on the role of John – in love with both people and slowly disintegrating as he is forced to make a choice. His body, either taut or liquid, reveals every emotion as he struggles with his sexuality and decision.
Leary keeps the pace moving with his character, from a weeping lover to a dominating and manipulating partner. The dialogue is quick but every word is heard.
McCracken as W, fighting to keep her lover, moves between a likeable woman to a demanding bitch. Her constant circling moves emphasise the fighting and disruption.
Matt Chamberlain, as M’s father, seamlessly blends into the action two-thirds of the way through, bringing just the right energy into the awkward conversation.
The theatre setup is based loosely on a cockfight, with the audience in tiered seating around the performance space, looking down at the characters battling it out. It is a wellwritten, directed and acted play and well worth a night out.