GUTTED @ STRATFORD THEATRE ROYAL REVIEW

Following the chaotic lives of the Prospect Brothers, Gutted explores the various paths and choices in which they take in the pursuit to succeed and be loved…

The staging consisted of mirrors surrounding the characters, which also reflected the auditorium of audience members, which was very striking. Symbolically, it worked extremely well as it was as if a mirror were reflected onto society. The staging worked especially well during the release of rising football star Mathew prospect, from rehab, who is greeted by the audience members, who serve as onlookers.  It was as if the characters were living in a fish bowl environment whereby actions were magnified. There were strong performances from all four brothers, in particular, Frankie Fitzgerald’s cheeky yet bold Mark Prospect, who served as the individual to try and pick up the morale of his brothers. The audience was allowed to view a calmer and caring side to his character during the breakdown of his relationship.

Jamie Nichols’ confident go-getter Luke Prospect was very memorable as he lived life on the edge, quoting one-liners along the way, and not letting anybody stand in his way. Throughout the piece, Rikki Beadle-Blair’s poetic monologues were powerful and poignant. The narrative was scattered, like the lives of the Brothers, so at times I was confused as to what was happening. I would also have liked to have seen more of a character arc from some characters, in particular, the Prospect’s mother, the dependent and weak Bridie,. This was a challenging dark comedy, which had some poignant moments. All in all I give Gutted a 4/5.

Gutted
Directed by Rikki Beadle – Blair

Written by Theatrefullstop