Four decades later and there’s no doubt that the music movement of Punk still resonates today. Antiestablishment and individualism, Punk is synonymous with revolution and breaking the mould. Arguably the most notable beacons of the movement, The Sex Pistols having released just the 1 album and with that managed to cement Punk as a force to be reckoned with in the UK having influenced musical acts to follow.
Sid re-ignites the fire first lit in the 70s. Known for his tumultuous lifestyle and relationship with lover Nancy Spungen, Sid Vicious made waves that still ripple today. A figure forever etched into the Punk rock music movement, it could be said that he was the physical embodiment of the genre; his drug fuelled relationship which tragically ended with the death of Nancy still to this day an intriguing talking point.
Craig, a teenager growing up in 2016 questions the mediocrity of everyday life, questioning why nobody attempts to break the mould. Jeremy Kyle reverberates around the intimate Arts Theatre stage as Craig, a youthful presence teeming with angst blasts The Sex Pistols from his sound system. Anarchic speeches dominate the evening. Leon Fleming‘s script is an amalgamation of 1970s rebellion and a stand still-non rebellious 2016. Fleming playfully encapsulates what it means to be a rebel with a cause. Craig’s life may appear mundane however he is fighting his fight, trying to change the perceptions of those around him and that makes for a captivating watch. A bull in a China shop, Craig wants to disrupt the peace and shake up the system.
The constant referencing of Nancy and Sid, and Craig drawing parallels to his relationship is often comical; a couple etched in history for their damaging lifestyle and a couple who don’t really appear to have any major issues. Their ideals however appear to differ, with Craig’s girlfriend prioritising her University prospects and Craig viewing life as a University rather than being taught to think a certain way by institutions. This clash results in a sad conclusion of the couple and has the audience on side with Craig. Scott le Crass directs a subtle, yet gregarious piece. It looks to impact the world on a local level first, really allowing for the audience to be brought into Craig’s way of thinking. 4/5
Review written by Lucy Basaba.
Sid was shown at the Arts Theatre from 19th September until Saturday 8th October. To watch the trailer of Sid, visit here…
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