Jock Night
Seven Dials Playhouse
9th Oct to 4th Nov 2023
“Adam Zane’s Jock Night is a raw, hilarious, and provocative comedy drama about contemporary gay life, love, and relationships. After a successful run of an hour-long version of the play in 2019, this two-act version produced in association with Seven Dials Playhouse explores the vibrant, world-famous Gay Village in Manchester, and highlights thought-provoking issues in the LGBTQ+ community through the lens of comedy and compassion.”
Review by Richard Lambert, 4 Stars
After a slightly stilted opening scene the play settles into a bundle of fun and continues with lots of laugh along the way. Sam Goodchild’s comedic delivery is spot on. The drama comes later in the 2nd half and unfolds to add an unexpected level of depth and poignancy.
A fantastic set design wraps around the stage detailing a converted warehouse or loft style of living. With lighting accents providing just the right amount of chic it’s slightly cliched for a gay man but then stereotypes can often come from reality. High praise must also be given for the range of costume and fetish gear paraded in the show.
The story would have us believe that all the gay men to be encountered in Manchester are living a free and easy attitude to sex and fetish clubs. They desire monogamy and a settling down but temptation is just too strong and reality betrays idealism. Theatre should provoke and cause discussion and JOCK NIGHT has the potential to do that.
The soundtracks for the scene changes are rather exciting and it’s interesting to see the cast in silhouette doing the set and costume changes.
With a lot of flesh and intimacy, handsome men, some fabulously funny lines, and a conclusion that’s heartfelt, this is an entertaining evening.
Ticket link: Click here