THEATRE REVIEWS

Man and Boy is a dark look at the father-son relationship. Written by Terence Rattigan and directed by Maria Aitkin, the play is set in 1930's New York and the action takes place in real time in a single set. This gives the play a definite pace and sense of intimacy, as we spend the evening unravelling the relationship between father and son.

The story recounts one evening in which the father, an amoral financier, seeks refuge from press and police in his estranged son's New York apartment. Ben Silverstone is excellent as the poverty stricken bohemian son who scrapes a living by playing piano in a club and whose life is guided by a distinct moral code. His father, however, has no such scruples and David Suchet quite simply steals the show with his portrayal of the megalomaniac father, Gregor Antonescu. Suchet is magnificent and keeps the audience captivated for every moment that he is on stage. His timing is impeccable and his presence on stage is such that even the slightest gesture seems full of significance.

Antonescu is at first confident and manipulates everyone around him. However, as his fortune, and therefore his world, begins to crumble around his ears, the power balance between him and his son begins to shift and we watch as the play works its way to a gripping climax. Throughout the play the contrast between the two leads serves to emphasise the innocence of one, and the corruption of the other. This powerful tale has lost none of its impact and the superb cast make it essential viewing. Not to be missed. © KA

“Man and Boy” is in Bath on the 18th until the 23rd of October, 2004.