Black Stuff is a well written comedy with a serious message. It begins in a light hearted way when honeymoon couple Justin (Jonathan Young who is also the Director) and Sophie (Laura Lloyd) run out of petrol on their journey across the Mexican desert to their resort on the coast. Fortunately, or so it seems, they manage to limp into a remote service station, manned by the apparently friendly and good natured middle aged Pascual (Tony Arteaga). What should be relief at their good luck begins a succession of disasters. Pascual informs the couple that he is awaiting a fresh supply of petrol. Undaunted at having to stay overnight, they live it up in true British style, with the help of copious quantities of Pascual’s tequila. Their plight nosedives the next morning when Sophie hears by chance a news broadcast of a petrol crisis and stock markets in turmoil – this play could not be more instantly topical! Optimism gives way to panic as the reality of their trapped situation hits home. The play takes on a darker tone and the need to survive replaces moral behaviour. The ending is dramatic and unexpected. Jonathan Young and Laura Lloyd play their parts with energy and gusto. This is balanced by Tony Arteaga’s low key interpretation of his character thus providing a contrast to the exuberance of the young couple. The theme of impending energy doom is not new but in the account of Justin and Sophie’s predicament there is an uncomfortable reminder of how fragile our way of life is. ****