Review: With Love Mr Gay, Brighton Fringe

“Dear Mr. Gay, if you move my bin again, I will get an ex-mercenary to destroy you… from flat 2.”

The intriguing starting point of this show triggered my interest in it, but I confess I went along with fairly middling expectations: the theatrical world – and its sub-set the Fringe – is awash with tales of quite interesting personal experiences which don’t often rise beyond the mildly diverting.

Within moments, Joshua Val Martin’s play had exceeded my hopes for it, revealing itself to be a show of immense charm and conviction, played with impeccable panache by Martin and his hugely versatile co-star, George Bury.

The true life set-up involves Josh, his dog Alan and boyfriend James moving into a flat along with a smiling Buddha ornament bought from a local homeware store. As performed by Bury, the Buddha both offers sage advice and plays a crucial part in events: his theft and Josh’s subsequent investigation prompting the note referenced above, which threatens “Mr. Gay” with dire consequences should he dare to interfere with the integrity of the bins again.

The note sets in train an escalating sequence of encounters with various neighbours and other interested parties, leading both to international press interest and a defiant gay pride demonstration. Although there seem to be many positive aspects to the situation, Josh’s relationship with James comes under strain and he needs to consider how and why to fight his battles.

Martin anchors his show with an immensely appealing performance that’s full of heart, while Bury plays dozens of characters in a parade of assured accents and mannerisms. Under Jez Dolan’s confident direction, the pair serve up an energetic and engaging partnership which is a joy to behold, steering the unpredictable narrative with just the right combination of comic joie de vivre and dramatic tension.

Classic pop songs pepper the show (accompanied by Musical Director Joshua Dawson on keyboard) including a rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow which is both moving and funny in bewitching combination. We end with a rousing and entirely appropriate rendition of the theme tune from Neighbours, with the whole audience taking part willingly, such is the confidence and affection that the piece has inspired.

With Love, Mr. Gay is an absolute gem: a gorgeous example of a story carved with admirable skill and brought to life by two superlative performers.

Written by: Joshua Val Martin
Directed by: Jez Dolan
Musical direction by: Joshua Dawson

With Love, Mr Gay plays at Brighton Fringe until Sunday 25 May.