Entering into a cave of darkness, with black fabric walls and stage curtains to match, you would be forgiven for expecting a sombre occasion, but when Henry Rollins takes to the stage in a t-shirt and jeans coloured to match his surroundings, you are immediately aware of the vulnerability of this lone performer. There can be no hiding behind an intricate costume or elaborate set piece, so what you are presented with is raw and almost humble.
The result is a show in which the orators’ evident loneliness and fears of coming age belie his youthful passion for all things interesting. From the seemingly apologetic satire of American political and religious beliefs at the start, to harrowing memories from the road weary trials of an ageing punk icon, through the hardships of acting out a neo-nazi villain so bigoted and far away from your own personal beliefs, and being roped into being a judge on the Drag Queen equivalent of x-factor by Ru Paul, Rollins sucks you in with his passion and captivates you for the full, un-relinquishing 75 minutes.
Charismatic and youthful as he remains, you can’t help but feel a little deflated by the constant grumblings of age from someone who is clearly still brimming with energy and has the ability to electrify a crowd, but seemingly is unaware. However, this does add to the very humble and honest atmosphere, in which Rollins shares deeply personal experience, and at the same time elicits roars of laughter and standing ovation from the audience. Wave your Black Flags high.
4/5 
Miriam Prosser
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