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A little less conversation: After Sex @Arcolatheatre

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According to research, millennials in rich countries are having sex less these days. But they were prepared to talk more about it. So, it is no surprise to see a story about what happens when a series of no-strings-attached encounters start to become attachments. And the conversations arising from it. Such is the premise of After Sex, Siofra Dromgoole’s two-hander of the conversations afterwards. It’s not particularly sexy or erotic, and the snappy pacing and short scenes sometimes make you wish they stayed longer to finish the conversation. Nevertheless, it is still a funny and, at times, bittersweet picture of single lives in the big city. It’s currently playing at the Arcola Theatre .  He is bi and works for her in an office job. She is neither ready for a commitment nor to let the office know what’s happening. He isn’t prepared to tell his mum there’s someone special in his life. He doesn’t speak to his dad, so his mum is his world. It’s a perfect relationship/arrangement. Or so it

A class of their own: HMS Pinafore @KingsHeadThtr




Charles Court Opera's production of Gilbert and Sullivan's HMS Pinafore takes life below deck to a new level. Set on a bright yellow submarine in the 1960s, it is a treat. Particularly with some excellent vocal singing from the small cast. It's currently playing at the Kings Head Theatre.

As a satire on the enduring preoccupation by the English on class, the piece never feels dated. So shifting the time and place doesn't seem such a bad thing. It's full title HMS Pinafore, or, the lass that loved a sailor pretty much sums up the story. The captain of the HMS Pinafore intends his daughter to marry the first Lord of the Admiralty, but she is in love with a lower-class sailor.

Here with a small cast while the chorus is reduced, it allows us to focus on the main action. And the music under the direction of David Eaton on keyboard. The cast works well to balance the demands of the music with the comic elements of the piece.


As the lovestruck sailor Ralph Rackstraw, Philip Lee has a strong tenor voice and some excellent comic timing. Alys Roberts as the Josephine, the captain's daughter is also vocally strong.  Joseph Shovelton is perfect as the somewhat ridiculous and under qualified First Lord of the Admiralty.

Last week while watching the show that has been following it, I found myself distracted by wondering what those unusual shapes and bits concealed behind a black curtain were. Set and costume designer Rachel Szmuckler has created a unique and detailed look for the show. Complete with bunk beds, periscopes and ladders.

Charles Court Opera is presenting it's tenth Gilbert and Sullivan Season at the Kings Head Theatre. It's clear they have developed a loyal following with their comic and witty adaptations.

Directed by John Savournin, HMS Pinafore is at the Kings Head Theatre until 11 May.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️



Photos by Robert Workman

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