4 Stars

****

Internet dating has become the theme for a number of productions in the past few years. Misshapen Theatre’s take on the subject is by far and away the funniest and most intelligent I have seen. Great credit is due to playwright Jonathan Brittain for a wonderful script and Natasha Nixon for her clear and focussed direction.

On stage throughout the proceedings, Michael Lyle gives an outstanding performance as the geeky and naïve Peter. He is well supported by Helen Duff as Thursday and Sam Donnelly as Dan. Thursday and Dan are experienced users of internet dating sites, basically to get a quick sexual fix.

The play’s structure is part Peter’s narrative and part individual scenes with Thursday and Dan. Peter, in his early twenties, has reached a stage in his life where he wants to discover the possibilities of internet dating. Thus, he encounters Thursday and is overwhelmed by her boldness. After receiving a misdirected text from Dan, they meet up and Dan becomes his mentor. The pacing of the dialogue varies from a crackling rapidity to some of the longest and most hilarious pauses I have ever witnessed.

The action reaches a marvellous conclusion when all three characters meet up by chance in Peter’s flat and the results are not what might be expected. This truly is a sex comedy for the 21st century.

Reviewed by Ben

Pleasance Courtyard/ Beside: 33

3 to 29 August 2011 (not 17)

14.45 – 15.45

Fringe Programme Page Number: 296