This play has as much resonance today as the 90s in which it was set. Written by Simon Beaufoy and directed by Michael Gyngell, it follows the story of Gaz, played by Danny Hatchard (instantly recognisable from Eastenders) who, along with many of his workmates and his boss, is out of work due to the collapse of the steelworks industry.
It is while Gaz and his friend Dave, played by Neil Hurst, are looking for work that they think of an idea to make some money – which Gaz desperately needs to pay child maintenance for his son, Nathan, who last night was played by Cass Dempsey.
Hearing how popular the Chippendales are, the friends come up with a plan to form a strip act of their own. But there’s only one problem – they can’t dance. They manage to persuade their old boss, Gerald, played by Bill Ward, who happens to be a pretty good dancer (and has kept himself in shape!), to teach them, but not before they have to apologise to him for breaking one of his gnomes..
Gaz manages to rope in Lomper, the security guard and Horse, played by Ben Onwukwe, who may moan about his arthritis but what a mover! They’re the most unlikely group of strippers but somehow they make it work and the audience is with them all the way.
Each one of the characters plays a believable/relatable role. From Gaz, who just wants to make enough money to pay his child maintenance, to his mate Dave, who has his insecurities about his weight and struggles to tell his wife his true feelings. Both of these characters are completely nailed and give the audience much to laugh (and cry) about.
You can’t help but feel for security guard Lomper, played by Nicholas Prasad who Gaz manages to save early on in the show, and who later reveals his sexuality to Guy the plasterer played by Jake Quickenden. Guy is not afraid of being part of the Full Monty act which he makes clear at the end of act one!
This play will take you on every emotion from laughing out loud to hard-hitting moments that cover topics including suicide, sexuality and body image.
It also has plenty of cheek(s)!
Scenery showing the empty steelworks, complete with sparks, steel girders and steps that create differing levels, are moved by the actors to create different sets including the job centre, outside Gaz’s ex-wife Mandy’s (played by Laura Matthews) house, even the interview room when Gerald fluffs the interview!
The 90s tunes throughout the show really are the icing on the cake. Last night the auditorium was packed and rightly so, with a standing ovation at the end that was thoroughly deserved.
★★★★★
The Full Monty is at Curve until Saturday, 30 March. Limited tickets available. Age guidance 12+
ACCESS PERFORMANCES
Captioned: Sat 30 Mar, 2.15pm
