‘Put on the kettle. Men Don’t Talk proves the opposite. And is all the better for it.’
Writer and director Clare Prenton has created a real gem. Men Don’t Talk is a heartwarming and poignant triumph of writing and acting, welcoming the audience into a fictional shed to join three male ‘shedders’ for a flash of deeply moving, very real, conversation about their own life struggles. With the focus on men’s health and wellbeing, inspired by lived experiences and executed with an obviously brilliant cast, it is a quietly powerful piece of theatre.
Prenton and her team have, ingeniously, brought a shed experience, complete with its quirks and numerous cups of tea and biscuits, to the stage and in doing so have masterfully merged reality with fiction. Throughout, the writing so viscerally captures the banter and dynamic between each character, including the audience as new shed members at times, it was easy to forget you were in a theatre at all. Utmost praise to the remarkable cast which is what truly solidified a fifth star. Dougal Lee stepping forth as Ken, the ex-history professor with a lovable but grinch-like mood was such a presence and fantastically spirited. Billy Mack, an effortless comedic relief playing the hilarious yet haunted Jimmy. Greg Powrie as Tom, the quiet glue of the trio, steady, compassionate and warm. The balance between such personalities allowed great dynamics to sensitive conversations and with stunning moments of camaraderie and connection, you come away with a feeling of great familiarity, as if you’ve known each character your whole life, or at least a version of them. Such is the power of a safe space.
The set, crafted by Frances Collier, was perfect. A true example of how effective four uprights can be with well chosen props and set dressing. In this instance, the creation of a cozy, multipurpose environment with filled shelves and fitted with a carpentry area was pleasantly functional and nuanced. Hanging tools askew, a pen dangling off a string on a clipboard, not one but two functional kettles and even the squeak of well loved chairs elevated the already realistic portrayal. It felt well loved. Collier is an artist. Music, used both as scene breaks and as scenic atmosphere, worked really well to tie the whole piece together, as did the lighting.
Men Dont Talk is a needed piece of theatre and a powerful example of what it can look like to have healthy, meaningful and perhaps life changing conversations, especially for men. If anything, it leaves you hopeful, open, and more willing to have a cup of tea and a chat with a friend or stranger than ever before. Highly recommend.