It is always a pleasure to watch a performance played out by talented actors but when these actors are armed with a script that is both potent and captivating, the result is nothing short of magical. This is the feeling evoked by Sam Peter Jackson’s debut play, Minor Irritations.
From the very first line, the style and energy of this production are made clear and it instantly enchants the audience with its believable characters and flawless comic timing.
Following the life of a struggling London actor stuck in a rut of dead end jobs and the shadow of a failed relationship, Minor Irritations, plays testament to the self-destructive vein that runs through all of us; the force that stops us from moving on when a relationship is over, despite the sound advice of friends.
This sometimes destructive, oftern dysfunctional nature of friendship between ex-lovers is embodied by the impassioned performances delivered by Nick White and Sam Peter Jackson in their roles as Jay and Ben. Fortunately the play does not dwell too long in these sombre moments and receives injections of humour precisely when it is needed.
Despite the frustrating situation in which the main character finds himself, the production is full of moments which highlight the magic of fate and the hope of new love. Charlie Tighe plays the perfect contrast to Ben’s sometimes cold, dismissive nature but stops far short of being a sickly sweet love interest.
While the entire cast is impeccable, the best comic moments come from Dulcie Lewis, who plays the larger than life characters of Harriet and Amy. Her ability to jump from one character to another and the ease and speed of her costume changes truly are a sight to behold.
Minor Irritations is an incredibly funny and truly inspiring production from start to finish.
5/5
Matthew Straw
