SGfringe

THEATRE

This is a show which will sweep you up with its energy from the start. You will find it surprising perhaps that most of the dialogue is in Welsh – though the cast keep swapping languages so you may find your self reading the subtitles when you don’t need to – I did! And there is a lot of dialogue quickly early on, and it can be difficult to read and watch at the same time – I am well used to subtitles but I found this trying.

It tells the story of a group of gay boys who are also rugby supporters. It is Welsh International night in Cardiff and Wales have lost – but the boys are still determined to have a good night out. They lubricate with alcohol at home, they go to a club, some of them end at a viewing point – the very good set serves for all.

The really original aspect of this for me was the use of the Welsh language; the situations the characters found themselves in, the exploration of their inner demons, their relationship problems, the way the gay life takes them further from their families than they wish, and the relations between generations have all been covered before.

But the big thing here is the enthusiasm, with which the cast belt along, and the singing and the national pride. Simon Watts as Aneurin is very strong and makes us feel for him in his family situation. Danny Grehan as Dada is a rounded character who eases difficult moments. Joshua Price as Gavin, the schoolboy who does not make his age clear and is invited back, is very effective and sings well.

This is a moving and involving show, which will carry you along – the time will pass quickly and thrillingly.