Drip, with words by Tom Wells and music by Matthew Robins, is the story of Liam, a young school boy growing up in North Shields. Special kudos has to be given to Andrew Finnigan who totally commits to the role of this young man already happy with his sexuality; this is a rite of passage that is totally absorbing. Finnigan fleshes out the character with a heart and soul, putting a philosophical spin on proceedings as he explores his life experiences. He has an elfish quality that adds to the charm of the performance, being both shy and beguiling at the same time. His friend Caz wants to set up a school synchronised swimming team to heighten her own street credibility, the only problem, Liam has to build up the courage to tell her he can’t swim.
There is a quirky and quaint feel to this monologue that is very charming and via interaction with the audience, who are asked to put on plastic ponchos and to handle props, scene by scene Liam tells his story with the inclusion of songs played on his guitar. Wells is quick to remind us that the innocence of youth is quickly lost. This is a gentle, tender, sincere, witty and delightful piece of theatre directed with great emotional effect by Jane Fallowfield, which totally reinforces how powerful a well delivered solo address can be. Very watchable.
****
Drip runs to Saturday 22nd December at the Studio, Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road Shepherds Bush, W12 8LJ. Box office 020 8743 5050 bushtheatre.co.uk
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