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A captivating exploration of gambling addiction and its profound effects.Summary
Rating
Good
When the Fun Stops, Try Again? is an interactive and audience-led performance that delves deep into the complex themes of gambling addiction, grief, and the allure of winning the jackpot. This semi-autobiographical piece, written by Nathan Charles, invites spectators to reflect on the dreams that accompany the desire for a more lavish lifestyle, particularly from a working-class perspective.
The Camden People’s Theatre, a cosy venue, sets the stage for this immersive experience. The space is adorned with various gambling paraphernalia, including bingo cards, scratch cards, and raffle tickets, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and charged with tension. Two tables are strategically placed: one displays enticing prizes, while the other houses the bingo balls and scripts. At the centre of it all stands a single microphone, inviting willing audience members.
From the very beginning, the performance presents a captivating combination of storytelling and stand-up comedy, fluidly shifting between touching anecdotes and light-hearted humour. The format is intentionally crafted to fully engage attendees, transforming them into active participants in the unfolding narrative. As willing audience members take turns drawing numbered bingo balls from a box, the tension escalates. Each number corresponds to a script that someone must read aloud, with the added twist that two specific numbers either signal the show’s abrupt conclusion or grant the lucky audience member a chance to win £500. This interactive element injects an electrifying layer of suspense and excitement, leaving the audience perched on the edges of their seats.
Throughout our performance, six scripts were presented, three of which introspectively explored the question, “What is gambling?” One script even invited debate on whether arcade coin machines can be classified as gambling. The remaining scripts offered anecdotal tales, including a particularly comedic story about Charles losing his Tesco Clubcard, highlighting how even the smallest losses can feel devastating. These comedic interludes provided a necessary counterbalance to the otherwise serious subject matter, allowing the audience to laugh before being confronted with the sobering realities of addiction.
It was revealed that many of the previous performances only completed four sections. However, our group managed to reach seven before the climactic moment arrived. The suddenness of the ending, marked by lights snapping on and closing music, effectively mirrored the abruptness of being pulled out of the gambling cycle. In that instant, I felt a surge of longing to return to the performance, hoping for a different outcome.
While I thoroughly appreciate the concept, the show could be further enhanced through the strategic use of lighting. Spotlighting the speaker while leaving the rest of the room in darkness, might effectively highlight the sense of isolation that individuals often experience during active addiction. Additionally, the overall intensity could be heightened by incorporating background tracks throughout the performance. Although I noticed a few soundscapes used momentarily, a continuous auditory backdrop would contribute to a smoother flow and a more immersive experience for the audience.
When the Fun Stops, Try Again? is an expertly crafted experience that offers profound insights into the mind of a gambler. The abrupt conclusion left me yearning for more, mirroring the insatiable nature of addiction itself. This performance is a thought-provoking exploration of desire, risk, and the human condition, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the complexities of life and luck.
Devised by Nathan Charles
Produced by Brightmouth Productions
When the Fun Stops, Try Again? Runs at Camden People’s Theatre until Friday 6 December. Further information and booking details can be found here.
