Review: Outside Voice, Soho Poly

Formerly a significant part of London’s Fringe scene in the 1970s and 80s, the Soho Poly was mostly used as a storage space for over a decade. Then, in 2012, a regeneration project began, and it is an absolute joy to be part of the audience in the renovated space: dedicated to bringing arts and culture back into everyday lives.

Matt Morrison’s Outside Voice is both interesting and well written, the premise focussing on the dynamic of a married couple in their middle age and their seemingly differing perspectives. Helen (Viss Elliot Safavi) is on the verge of a career defining moment. An academic philosopher, she has been asked to chair an influential Government health committee. Her husband Guy (Phil Cheadle), formerly struck off from the medical profession for malpractice (not following documentation protocol) has found fame in the form of his influential podcast which entertains alternative theories, and seeks to expose the control and hypocrisy of big Pharma. Clearly this brings a risk of career suicide for one of them which will have consequences for their relationship. Added to the mix are close friends Eve (Elle O’Donnell), a young adult with stage four cancer, and goddaughter of Helen, and her father, Mike (Dan Starkey) also an old friend of the couple, ex business partner to Guy, and perhaps once paramour of Helen.

This is a play about open discussion and thought in a world of polarised beliefs: about being willing to consider alternative views and the nuance in human behaviour and seemingly conflicting actions produced by love. It’s full of challenging dialogue, emotional manipulation and ambiguity. And as a result it feels real and resonates with the audience. 

A small stage is used well, with all actors visible throughout the performance. Those not in play sit on chairs to the side, silently observing, or judging perhaps? A series of Amazon-style lockers at the back are both flexible and functional. It would appear they are labelled with the names of drugs, but they also pull out to form furniture on stage. Is this a reflection on a one-size-fits all approach to medication? Or a more practical solution? I’m not sure, but I loved it.

Safavi and Cheadle are phenomenal actors: they spar off each other, whilst mutually respectful. They convey love, frustration and knowledge born of a long married couple with touches of genuine emotion when they refer to a traumatic incident from their past. O’Donnell’s Eve has potential but Mike’s incessant boiling anger feels a little one dimensional.

A series of clever subplots and developments are interwoven in liminal spaces to produce difficult consequences. An undercurrent of uncertainty camouflages intent. In other words: we can never be sure of the truth, which is an intensely human experience. 

In a world which is increasingly polarised with institutions and individuals silenced, this is a play of its time. Far more than the plot itself, the writing encourages the audience to consider all opinions, and generate proactive dialogue, in a safe space.

Written by: Dr Matt Morrison
Directed by: Hanna Berrigan
Set design by: Nicky Bunch
Lighting Design by: Louise Anderson
Sound Design by: Ed Lewis
Stage Manager: Rose Hockady
Produced by: Alex Deacon for QHT Live Performance Project

Outside Voice play at Soho Poly until Saturday 5 July.